Chief Executive of the Veterans charity Erskine, Wing Commander Ian Cumming MBE:   

"Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II held a special place in the hearts of many Erskine Veterans. On behalf of all who live or work at Erskine, I would like to convey our deepest sympathies to our patron, His Royal Highness King Charles III and to the entire Royal Family.  

Our thoughts and condolences are with them at this very sad and difficult time.” 

With the sad passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, members of the British and Commonwealth Armed Forces, and their Veteran Family, have lost someone who was much more than a notional figurehead. Her Majesty held many honorary Colonel-in-Chief and Commandant positions during her lifetime. She was a totemic figure for the military not only in constitutional terms but through the genuine concern, consideration and compassion she showed for Service-people and families, during many official visits to bases, ports, garrison and military charities, such as Erskine. She also led us all, by high example and great grace, during the pandemic. There are no Veterans, or anyone living or working at Erskine, who have not been touched by Her Majesty’s influence in some way - either as the highest example of loyal commitment and leadership, or as a deeply interested, humorous and compassionate visitor.