2014 Royal Tour - The Princess Royal

Their Excellencies the Right Honourable David Johnston, Governor General of Canada, and Mrs. Sharon Johnston officially welcomed Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal and Vice Admiral Sir Tim Laurence to Canada at Rideau Hall.

"I would like now to raise a glass to Her Majesty The Queen, whom I represent here in Canada, and whose message of service and good works you represent with great honour wherever you go."

"You have personally been a champion of sports, and have supported and empowered children around the world. Your efforts have improved so many lives, and you have inspired others to volunteer and get involved in their communities. You and I share a desire to create a better world—a smarter, more caring world—a world that supports the most vulnerable among us, and recognizes and encourages excellence."

After planting a new tree, Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal stopped at the tree she planted in 1979 on Rideau Hall grounds.

As per tradition, Her Royal Highness and Vice Admiral Laurence, joined by Their Excellencies, planted a tree (red maple) on Rideau Hall grounds.

Flowers were given to Her Royal Highness by Memphis Zopf (7 years old) and Mylee Zopf (4 years old). Memphis and Mylee are the daughters of Sgt Chad Zopf, a Canadian Armed Forces Communication signaller from Regina, Saskatchewan. The family currently lives in the Ottawa Region.

“I think we especially remember the two servicemen, Warrant Officer Patrice Vincent and Cpl. Nathan Cirillo, who were recently killed in the service of their country, and we will always honour the sacrifice they made on behalf of us all.”

Her Royal Highness also delivered remarks.

Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal and Vice Admiral Sir Tim Laurence paid attention to the words of welcome delivered by the Governor General.

"Your Royal Highness, though your visit to Canada will be short, it will be extremely meaningful to Canadians. The highlight of your brief tour will be tomorrow’s Remembrance Day ceremonies, during which we will honour those who have sacrificed so much for our nation. It will also be an opportunity for us to thank members of the Canadian Armed Forces who are currently serving our country around the world."

The welcoming ceremony also included a 21-gun salute.

Pipes and drums were also inspected.

Her Royal Highness took the time to inspect both ranks of members of the Canadian Armed Forces.

Members of the public were invited to attend the official welcoming ceremony at Rideau Hall.

Her Royal Highness spoke to a few members of the Canadian Armed Forces.

Her Royal Highness proceeded to the inspection of a guard of honour composed of members of the Canadian Armed Forces.

Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal received full military honours.

The theme of the 2014 Royal Tour was Canada’s Heroes: A Celebration of Canadian Accomplishment and Pride.

Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal also delivered remarks and offered a toast.