Special meaning behind Kate Middleton’s new title and particularly poignant motto

The Princess of Wales, Kate Middleton, has been bestowed a prestigious honor by her father-in-law, King Charles III. On Tuesday, St. George’s Day, the King appointed her as a Royal Companion of The Order of the Companions of Honour. This historically significant title recognizes the high esteem in which she is held.

Notably, Kate is believed to be the first member of the royal family to hold this honor. The Order of the Companions of Honour was founded by King George V in 1917 to acknowledge outstanding achievements and major contributions over an extended period in various fields, including the arts, sciences, medicine, and public service. The order’s motto, “In action faithful and in honour clear,” reflects its purpose.

While Kate is currently taking a break from official duties due to undergoing chemotherapy after a cancer diagnosis earlier this year, the King’s decision to bestow this honor upon her underscores her significant contributions and the respect she has earned.

The Princess of Wales, Kate Middleton, holds patronage roles with several prestigious arts organizations, including the National Portrait Gallery, the Victoria and Albert Museum, and the Royal Photographic Society. Her passion for art history stems from her university days at St. Andrews, where she famously met her husband, Prince William.

The Order of the Companions of Honour is an exclusive group limited to 65 members at any given time. Notable current members include acclaimed actors Dame Maggie Smith and Sir Ian McKellen, music legends Sir Elton John and Sir Paul McCartney, author J.K. Rowling, and renowned naturalist Sir David Attenborough. Past members have included esteemed figures such as Stephen Hawking, Prime Minister Sir Winston Churchill, and Archbishop Desmond Tutu of South Africa. Non-British nationals can be appointed as honorary members in addition to the core 65.

The insignia of the Order consists of a gold medallion suspended from a red ribbon and surmounted by a crown. The medallion features an armored knight on horseback and an oak tree with a shield bearing the Royal Arms. The blue enameled border is inscribed with the Order’s motto.

Royal enthusiasts may have the opportunity to witness Kate wearing this prestigious honor at formal white-tie events, such as state visits or the annual diplomatic reception.

On St George’s Day, a series of significant announcements were made regarding royal appointments and honors. Firstly, King Charles III appointed his eldest son and heir, the Prince of Wales, as the Great Master of the Most Honourable Order of the Bath. This prestigious order, established by King George I in 1725, although its origins can be traced back to the 8th century, is awarded to members of the military or civil service for exemplary service. The Prince of Wales previously held the position of Great Master from 1974 to 2022.

Additionally, the King appointed his wife, Queen Camilla, as the Grand Master and First or Principal Dame Grand Cross of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire. This role is the second most senior position within the order, with the King being the sovereign. Previously, this position was held by the King’s father, Prince Philip, the late Duke of Edinburgh, as well as Charles’s great-grandmother, Queen Mary, and the abdicated Edward VIII when he was still the Prince of Wales. The Order of the British Empire, established by George V in 1917, is the largest order of chivalry in the UK, recognizing outstanding contributions by individuals within their local communities or at a national level.

His Majesty has exercised his prerogative and bestowed four new appointments to the esteemed Order of the Garter, including the acclaimed composer Lord Lloyd Webber. The distinguished theatre impresario, renowned for his critically acclaimed musicals such as The Phantom Of The Opera, Cats, Jesus Christ Superstar, and Joseph And The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, has been elevated to the rank of Knight Companion of the Most Noble Order of the Garter, a prestigious honor befitting his remarkable contributions to the arts.