Princess Elizabeth in Wartime

Visiting Airborne Forces, 19 May 1944
Visiting Airborne Forces, 19 May 1944

The Queen and Princess Elizabeth talk to a camouflaged sniper during a visit to Airborne Forces. Princess Elizabeth carried out her first public engagement in 1943 aged 16. She accompanied the King and Queen on many of their tours around the UK.
Visiting Airborne Forces, 19 May 1944
Visiting Airborne Forces, 19 May 1944

Princess Elizabeth watching parachutists dropping in preparation for the Normandy Landings. On her visit to Airborne Forces in May 1944, Princess Elizabeth met airborne troops who would play a key role in the operation.
Princess Elizabeth at the Auxiliary Territorial Service (ATS) Training Centre
Princess Elizabeth at the Auxiliary Territorial Service (ATS) Training Centre

Princess Elizabeth (centre) with officers of the ATS Training Centre. Princess Elizabeth joined the ATS in 1945 at the age of 19. Her father was initially against her undertaking national service. However, Elizabeth persuaded him to change his mind.
Princess Elizabeth, Second Subaltern in the ATS
Princess Elizabeth, Second Subaltern in the ATS

After joining the ATS, Princess Elizabeth trained as a driver and mechanic with the rank of Second Subaltern. Five months later she was promoted to Junior Commander, which was the equivalent of Captain.
The Royal Family on VE Day, 8 May 1945
The Royal Family on VE Day, 8 May 1945

King George VI and Queen Elizabeth with Princesses Elizabeth and Margaret, and Winston Churchill, on the balcony of Buckingham Palace. On VE day, the Royal Family appeared on the balcony at Buckingham Palace to acknowledge the crowds celebrating below.

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