Prince Charles steps in for the Queen as nation honors her 70-year reign.

The Queen’s platinum jubilee festivities began on Thursday with a spectacular Trooping the Colour ceremony, marking 70 years of service by the UK’s longest-reigning monarch. Thousands gathered to witness the parade, flypast, and a rare display of royal unity.

At 96 years old, the Queen delegated the role of taking the salute to the Prince of Wales due to mobility challenges. He was joined by the Duke of Cambridge and the Princess Royal at Horse Guards Parade. Despite not inspecting the guard as tradition dictates, the Queen greeted the returning Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment from the Buckingham Palace balcony, accompanied by the Duke of Kent.