In a delightful display of warmth and compassion, Duchess Sophie of Edinburgh was recently captured engaging with young children in a charming behind-the-scenes video.
This touching interaction took place at the National Arboretum on November 11, right after the solemn Armistice Service commemorating those who have served in the military.
The Duchess, 59, attended the event solo, leaving her husband, Prince Edward, at home.
The Armistice Service was marked by a poignant two minutes of silence observed across the United Kingdom, reflecting on the sacrifices made by countless individuals.
As she knelt to speak with the children, an adult nearby gently pointed out, “This is the lady that came in the helicopter.”
Sophie responded with a playful spirit, telling the kids, “I’m going to return in my helicopter too.
Are you going to wave at the helicopter?”
Her light-hearted banter continued as she promised that in about five minutes, the helicopter would take off, soaring high into the sky.
“Will you give it a big wave?” she asked, sparking smiles and excitement among the little ones.
The video quickly gained traction online, amassing over 140,000 views and more than 6,000 likes.
Royal enthusiasts flocked to the comments section, praising Sophie’s genuine connection with the children.
One TikTok user reminisced about meeting her, describing her as exuding a “charming air” and being “genuinely a beautiful woman.”
Another comment noted her grounded nature, highlighting her loveliness.
Support for Princess Catherine also shone through in the comments, with one admirer expressing their affection for both women, calling them “precious gems” of the royal family.
Just a day prior, Sophie had shown her solidarity with Princess Kate during the Remembrance Sunday service, standing alongside her on the balcony of the Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office.
On the day of the Armistice service, the Duchess donned a sophisticated all-black outfit, complete with a stylish black hat, matching suede boots, and an elegant Armani coat featuring a V-neck button-up.
To honor the occasion, she wore a spray of three poppies pinned to her regimental brooch, representing her role as Colonel-in-Chief of the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers.
Before the nation paused for reflection at 11 a.m., Sophie read a passage from Lawrence Binyon’s poignant poem, “For the Fallen.”
Her presence at the ceremony was further marked by a wreath-laying tribute at the Armed Forces Memorial, a gesture steeped in respect and remembrance.
As she walked among the names etched into the memorial, Sophie was visibly moved, her emotions evident as she honored the memory of the fallen soldiers and servicewomen.
