Queen Camilla momentarily broke protocol during a wreath-laying ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia. The 78-year-old royal, accompanying King Charles, faced an unexpected interruption from a bee while honoring the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
Bee Interrupts Solemn Tribute
A military band performed muffled ruffles and taps, followed by a moment of silence. As the official salute proceeded, a bee flew toward Camilla, prompting her to swat it away. The insect then approached King Charles, leading Camilla to wave it off protectively. She stepped back, briefly disrupting the formation.
Significance of the Tomb
The Tomb honors unidentified soldiers from the First World War, as well as later conflicts in 1958 and 1984. Soldiers guard it continuously around the clock since 1937. The site previously welcomed Queen Elizabeth II in 1957.
Official Welcome and Additional Engagements
Upon arrival, the royal couple received a 21-gun salute. Major General Antoinette Gant, the cemetery’s military representative, and US Chief of Protocol Monica Crowley greeted them.
Before departing, King Charles and Queen Camilla visited the Canadian Cross of Sacrifice, commemorating American volunteers who served and died with the Canadian Expeditionary Force in the First World War. They also engaged with active-duty personnel from the UK, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.
The visit continued with a block party in Virginia marking the 250th anniversary of American independence. King Charles later departed for a solo trip to Bermuda.
Royal Encounters with Insects
Insects have occasionally disrupted royal duties. In 2003, Queen Elizabeth II managed a swarm of bees while reviewing the Grenadier Guards at Windsor, assisted by Prince Philip and royal beekeeper Peter Sheppard.
Beekeeping interests several royals, including King Charles, the Princess of Wales, and Meghan Markle. Last summer, Queen Mary of Denmark required medical attention after a wasp sting during an official event.
