Princess Anne is set to bring her signature compassion to this
year’s festive season as she hosts the annual Christmas celebration
for The Not Forgotten Association at St James’s Palace. The event,
which honours injured, ill, and isolated veterans and serving
personnel, is a highlight of the royal calendar and a testament to
the Princess Royal’s enduring commitment to the armed forces.

This year’s celebration is particularly poignant, marking the
charity’s 105th anniversary. The Not Forgotten Association was
founded by American soprano Marta Cunningham, who was moved by the
sight of thousands of wounded servicemen in hospitals across
Britain after the First World War. Determined to lift their
spirits, Cunningham organised music, entertainment, and afternoon
teas, creating the blueprint for a charity that continues to touch
lives more than a century later.

From its very beginning, the association enjoyed royal support.
With the permission of King George V and Queen Mary, the first
official garden party was held at Buckingham Palace in August 1920.
Service personnel were offered tea, cigarettes, and the chance to
tour the Royal Mews and gardens. Within its inaugural year, the
charity supported some 10,000 men and women, combining practical
care with moments of joy and celebration.

Today, The Not Forgotten Association continues to provide
leisure activities, travel, and holidays for wounded or ill service
members, veterans, and those isolated from support networks. Its
work spans all branches of the British Armed Forces, including the
Army, Royal Navy, Royal Air Force, Royal Marines, and Merchant
Navy, and is guided by its motto, “from comradeship to challenge,”
reflecting its mission to restore confidence, purpose, and
wellbeing.

Princess Anne has been the association’s royal patron since
2000, following Princess Mary and The Duchess of Kent. Over two
decades, she has overseen the charity’s growth and continued
relevance, ensuring that veterans receive not only support, but
recognition and celebration for their sacrifices. While the annual
garden party at Buckingham Palace has occasionally been paused,
such as in 2020 during the pandemic, the Princess Royal’s
dedication has never wavered.