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Kate Middleton Appears Emotional as She Lays Flowers for Queen Elizabeth During Honorary Service

Kate Middleton looked emotional while laying flowers to honor Queen Elizabeth on the first anniversary of her death.

Kate Middleton appeared emotional during Queen Elizabeth's anniversary service. The Princess of Wales spent over two decades building a close relationship with Her Majesty and learning about royal life. Kate's connection to Elizabeth was on full display while laying flowers near a portrait of the late monarch.

A moment of reflection at St Davids Cathedral honouring Her Late Majesty and all that she did for communities like this around the UK, the Commonwealth and the world. pic.twitter.com/44JXfwCc4S

— The Prince and Princess of Wales (@KensingtonRoyal) September 8, 2023

The official Twitter account for the royal family tweeted a photo of Kate and Prince William while they paid their respects.

According to an official statement from the palace, the ceremony was "an act of reflection for accession day." The melancholy occasion included prayers in both Welsh and English.

Kate's connection to Elizabeth has been a topic of discussion amongst royal commentators since she became a duchess in 2011.

"People love to say that the queen is running princess school, and she’s got Kate in a classroom with a blackboard and telling her how to do things. It’s just not how it works," Victoria Arbiter said in an interview.

"[Elizabeth] is very keen on members of her family finding their own way, and I will be paraphrasing, but Prince William said a few years ago, she doesn’t tell you what to do or how to do it. She lets you know if she doesn’t like how you did it," the royal expert added.

During the pandemic, Kate and Elizabeth collaborated on the "Hold Still" project to highlight how the U.K. came together during such a turbulent time period. The collection of images brought together the two royals strengths and love of service.

"The Duchess of Cambridge and I were inspired to see how the photographs have captured the resilience of the British people at such a challenging time, whether that is through celebrating frontline workers, recognizing community spirit or showing the efforts of individuals supporting those in need," Elizabeth said in an official statement.

Kate's ties to Elizabeth were mentioned in the Prince of Wales' farewell message to the late queen.

"I, however, have lost a grandmother," William said. "And while I will grieve her loss, I also feel incredibly grateful. I have had the benefit of The Queen's wisdom and reassurance into my fifth decade."

"My wife has had twenty years of her guidance and support. My three children have got to spend holidays with her and create memories that will last their whole lives," he added.

Arbiter spoke to the New York Post.