AS young soldiers we swore allegiance to the Queen, her heirs and successors and the country we served.
That sense of duty has been reciprocated countless times over the past 64 years, which has earnt the Queen the country’s enduring affection.
She is truly a remarkable woman.
In September, she surpassed even her great, great grandmother, Queen Victoria, in longevity and length of service.
The Queen’s commitment remains undimmed, attending 341 official engagements last year, ably supported by Prince Philip, who, at 94, managed 250 of his own.
This weekend, we celebrate her official 90th birthday, beginning with a Service of Thanksgiving at St Paul’s Cathedral.
Tomorrow sees the Trooping the Colour, the magnificent military parade which traditionally marks the monarch’s birthday.
I’ve had the honour of participating twice on this occasion and for all of us it was a unique privilege.
On Sunday, thousands will enjoy numerous street parties, including, appropriately, one in the Queen’s own street, The Mall.
Ten thousand guests have been invited and the Queen will, as always, be attending.
No monarch deserves these tributes more, as she continues to set an example of irreproachable dignity and dedication to duty.
Finally, I did not want to drag the Queen into the EU debate but, with a referendum looming, let me leave you with this thought.
Do you think, for one moment, that a super-state, as is being implemented, will allow the Queen to remain head of state?
Common sense, and my scepticism about bureaucracy, would say no.
And, let’s face it, the EU already has five presidents!
I like things as they are, and perhaps the second verse of the national anthem puts it rather well.
“May she defend our laws, And ever give us cause, To sing with heart and voice, God save the Queen.”