The King performed the ultimate poignant gesture as he visited the 9/11 Memorial on Wednesday, as he bowed in recognition of those who lost their lives. 

Charles, 77, and Queen Camilla said they “stand in enduring solidarity with the American people” in a message left with a white bouquet at the New York memorial, commemorating the thousands who were killed during the attacks on 11 September 2001. 

In a sombre moment of reflection during their State Visit to the US, they laid the bouquet at the edge of the south pool. The royal couple was clearly deeply moved, and the King was seen bowing his head in recognition of the tragedy. 

Writing under a video shared by HELLO! on Facebook, one person commented: “I saw the King quietly bow his head. THAT is rarely, if ever done by a Royal. He is not required to do so. May God Save The King.”

“It was very touching and so appreciated. It was a hard day for us,” added another. 

Royal rules around bowing

While royal family members are expected to bow or curtsy to King Charles or Queen Camilla, they rarely carry out the move themselves. 

© AFP via Getty Images

When greeting the monarch, people may wish to observe the traditional forms: a bow (from the head only) for men, or a small curtsy for women. A handshake is also appropriate, but only “common courtesy” is actually required.  

The monarch is not required to bow to anyone as he holds the highest rank in the royal family. However, he can choose to bow as a personal gesture of respect on occasions such as funerals or visiting war memorials. 

The state visit continues 

© Getty Images

So far, the King and Queen have visited Washington, D.C., where they received an official welcome from President Donald Trump  and First Lady Melania. They also attended a garden party and a state banquet, while the King gave a powerful speech to Congress, receiving multiple standing ovations from senators and representatives.

The royal couple has also visited New York and will travel to Virginia before the King continues to Bermuda alone for the final two days of the visit abroad.  

On Wednesday, Sir Keir Starmer opened Prime Minister’s Questions by telling the Commons: “The state visit by His Majesty the King is a powerful reminder of the deep and special relationship we have with the United States.”