King Charles bestowed a significant honor upon Catherine, the Princess of Wales, recognizing her extensive public service.
At the age of 42, Katherine was appointed to the Order of the Companions of Honor, an institution established by King George V in 1917. This order commemorates outstanding achievements in the arts, sciences, medicine, and public service. Notably, Katherine's appointment marks the first time a member of the royal family has been honored in the order's century-long history.
Sources indicate that this gesture symbolizes the immense esteem in which Princess Katherine is held by her father-in-law, King Charles. It also serves as a personal expression of gratitude for her loyal service to the crown since her marriage to Prince William nearly 13 years ago. Furthermore, it acknowledges her significant contributions to the arts. As an avid photographer, the Princess of Wales serves as a patron for the Royal Photographic Society and the National Portrait Gallery. She also spearheaded the poignant Lockdown on Photography initiative.
Although the appointment is not directly conferred by the king himself, it is made by the Cabinet Office based on his recommendation. This honor underscores King Charles's deep affection for his beloved daughter-in-law, Katherine. The Order of the Companions of Honor, with its spiritual center at the Chapel Royal in Hampton Court Palace, is limited to 65 members from across the Commonwealth. Among its distinguished current members are David Attenborough, Dame Judy Dench, Sir Ian McKellen, Dame Maggie Smith, Sir Roy Strong, Sir Paul McCartney, and J.K. Rowling.
Katherine's appointment is part of a series of new honors announced recently by His Majesty. These include honors bestowed upon four senior royals. Queen Camilla is to be appointed Grandmaster and First Principal Dame Grand Cross of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire, a traditional appointment for the spouse of the monarch.
Prince William has also been honored with the appointment as Great Master of the Most Honourable Order of the Bath, following in his own father's footsteps. Additionally, on St. George's Day, four new companions to the Order of the Garter, Britain's oldest order of chivalry, were announced. Among them is the Duchess of Gloucester, who becomes a Royal Lady Companion of the Most Noble Order of the Garter in recognition of her decades of loyal service to the monarchy and her extensive charitable work.
King Charles's decision to transfer Megan's prestigious role as patron of the National Theatre to Camilla highlights a stark contrast in dedication and contribution. While Megan's tenure was marred by inaction, Camilla has embraced the role with enthusiasm and effectiveness. Princess Katherine's contributions to the arts far surpass those of Megan, who continues to strive for recognition in Hollywood and social influencing. Katherine's dedication is commendable and serves as a testament to her focus and maturity in maintaining a positive trajectory in her endeavors. Megan might benefit from observing Katherine's example rather than presuming superiority over others.
