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Why did The Queen choose to wear five poppies on Remembrance Sunday?

Photo credit: Samir Hussein - Getty Images
Photo credit: Samir Hussein - Getty Images

From Cosmopolitan

Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, the Duchess of Cambridge Kate Middleton and the Duchess of Sussex Meghan Markle all stepped out for the annual Remembrance Sunday Service in London today.

Prince Charles and his sons Prince William and Prince Harry were also present at the service.

It takes place every year at The Cenotaph to commemorate members of the British and Commonwealth Armed Forces killed in the First and Second World Wars.

Pictures from the service show Queen Elizabeth wearing five poppies on her left lapel, as she did last year.

Meanwhile Kate wore one broach-style poppy.

Photo credit: DANIEL LEAL-OLIVAS - Getty Images
Photo credit: DANIEL LEAL-OLIVAS - Getty Images


Some have questioned why the Queen always wears the most poppies to the service, after she also wore three in 2017 and five again in 2016.

Although Buckingham Palace has never confirmed the exact reason, one theory is that each poppy represents each service in the World Wars: the Army, the Navy, the RAF, the Civil Defence and women.

Some have also suggested the move is symbolic of The Queen’s position as the head of the Royal Family, and also the highest ranking dignitary at the service.

Some believe The Queen wears her poppy to the left, as with military medals, as it is closest to the heart.

Photo credit: Chris Jackson - Getty Images
Photo credit: Chris Jackson - Getty Images

However, the British Legion has clarified that it doesn’t matter which side of the chest you wear the symbol.

Guidelines on The British Legion’s official website state: "There is no 'correct' way to wear a poppy.

"It is a matter of personal choice whether someone chooses to wear a poppy and how they choose to wear it. The best way to wear a poppy is simply with pride."




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