Queen praises Falklands veterans

The Queen has paid a personal tribute to those who lived through and served in the Falklands war, saying the sacrifice of 1982 had not been in vain.

In a message to the Falkland Islanders on the 25th anniversary of their liberation from Argentinian occupation she said the men and women who served in the British Task Force to reclaim the islands had taken a "stand for democracy and freedom".

And she praised the islanders for their loyalty and determination to preserve their unique way of life.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with you all," she told them.

The Queen joined veterans and bereaved families at the Falklands Memorial Chapel in Pangbourne, Berkshire, on Thursday, while 8,000 miles away islanders were remembering the Argentinian defeat with a service and parade in the capital Stanley.

Members of the royal family will also attend a national commemoration at Horse Guards in London on Sunday which will be linked by satellite to a service at the British cemetery at San Carlos, scene of the British landings on the Falkland Islands.

In the message, broadcast to the islanders by Governor Alan Huckle, the Queen said the Duke of Edinburgh joined her in sending greetings.

"I know that this anniversary year brings you a mixture of memories," she said.

"At the service at the Falklands Memorial Chapel in Pangbourne and as veterans of the Task Force parade in London on Sunday, we shall remember those who are no longer here and our thoughts will be with their families and loved ones.

"Twenty five years ago, the men and women of the Task Force made a stand for democracy and freedom. Since then, you have shown that their sacrifice was not in vain by your continued loyalty and determination to safeguard and develop your way of life in these islands."