Gun salutes take place on the following royal anniversaries: Accession Day, the Monarch’s birthday, Coronation Day, the Monarch’s official birthday, the State Opening of Parliament, royal births and when a visiting head of state meets the sovereign in London, Windsor or Edinburgh. Chief of the Defense Staff Admiral Sir Tony Radakin said: “This is a moment of deep sadness for millions of people across the nation and across the Commonwealth. “On behalf of the Armed Forces, I would like to express our condolences to His Majesty The King and the Royal Family. “Queen Elizabeth II has been a constant in all our lives. A symbol of continuity amid seven decades of sweeping change. A unifying force at the heart of public life, particularly when leading the nation in remembrance before the Cenotaph. “In the coming days our sailors, soldiers and airmen must perform their final duty to a much-loved Sovereign. We do it with admiration and gratitude. “As we bow in quiet contemplation, we remember the Queen’s own vow of service on the occasion of her 21st birthday: a promise to be fulfilled with ‘unwavering faith, high courage and a quiet heart.’ “These were the hallmarks of a remarkable life. which continues to inspire Britons everywhere. And for those of us who are privileged to now wear the King’s uniform, there is no greater honor than to serve our Crown and Country.”
