Princess Alexandra welcomed wounded soldier in Southampton

The year was 1900 and The Boer War, a brutal conflict fought across the vast plains of South Africa, had taken its toll. These were not the fresh-faced lads who had marched off to war filled with patriotic fervour. These were men haunted by the harsh realities of battle, their bodies bearing the scars of conflict, their minds weary from the relentless struggle for survival. For them, the journey home to England was a lifeline, a beacon of hope in the darkness.

After weeks of enduring the relentless sway of the ocean, the sight of Southampton's docks must have been a balm to their souls. The familiar coastline, the bustling port, the promise of home - it all mingled together to create a potent elixir of relief and anticipation. 

But for some, a special welcome awaited them, one that transcended the usual fanfare and celebrations. A welcome fit for heroes, orchestrated by a woman whose compassion and grace were renowned throughout the land - Alexandra, the Princess of Wales.

Alexandra was no stranger to the plight of the soldiers. She had followed the war closely, her heart aching for every life lost, every injury sustained. 

The newspapers were filled with tales of her tireless efforts to support the troops, from organising fundraising events to visiting hospitals. But her compassion went beyond mere duty; it stemmed from a deep-seated empathy for the men who risked their lives for their country.

Whenever a ship carrying wounded soldiers arrived in Southampton, the Princess would make it her personal mission to be there. 

And when the vessel happened to be the Princess of Wales, a hospital ship christened in her honour, her presence took on an even greater significance. It was as if she were welcoming her own sons back home, her heart swelling with pride and concern for each and every one of them.

The Daily Echo, or rather, its ancestor, captured the essence of Alexandra's dedication in an article published 114 years ago: "The keen interest which HRH the Princess of Wales has taken in the welfare of the sick and wounded in the South African war is so well known that it has passed into a household word."

But Alexandra was more than just a sympathetic figurehead. She actively sought to provide comfort and solace to the soldiers and their families. 

When called upon to send a message of support to those left behind, she penned these heartfelt words: ‘Peace, perfect peace, with lov’d ones far away, In Jesus’s keeping we are safe, and they.’

These simple yet profound words, imbued with faith and love, resonated deeply with the anxious families, offering them a glimmer of hope amid the uncertainty of war. 

But Alexandra's commitment went beyond words. 

She demonstrated her unwavering support by personally visiting the hospital ship Princess of Wales, braving the potentially infectious environment to offer words of comfort and encouragement to the wounded.

On a bright July day in 1900, the "Princess of Wales" glided into Southampton's Empress Dock. The atmosphere was electric with anticipation. Flags fluttered in the breeze, bunting adorned every lamppost, and a sea of eager faces lined the wharf. 

News of the Princess's impending arrival had spread like wildfire, drawing a crowd eager to witness this heartwarming spectacle.

A crimson carpet, the traditional symbol of royal welcome, stretched from the platform to the gangway, its vibrant hue contrasting sharply with the sombre grey of the ship. 

As the royal train chugged into the station, a hush fell over the crowd. All eyes were fixed on the elegant figure emerging from the carriage - Alexandra, the Princess of Wales. 

Dressed in a gown of delicate lace and a wide-brimmed hat adorned with feathers, she exuded an aura of regal grace and compassion.

With a gentle smile gracing her lips, the Princess stepped onto the ship, her presence immediately transforming the sterile environment of the hospital ward into a place of warmth and hope. 

For the next hour and a half, she moved among the wounded, her soft voice a soothing balm to their weary souls. She inquired about their injuries, listened to their stories, and offered words of encouragement and praise.

But Alexandra's generosity didn't end there. 

Prior to her visit, she had ensured that every soldier received a care package containing shirts, handkerchiefs, and socks - essential items for their recovery. And on this day, she surprised them with an additional gift: beautiful red cushions, each embroidered with an intricate design, a token of her admiration and gratitude.

As the Princess prepared to depart, a young soldier, his arm bandaged, stepped forward and presented her with a bouquet of pink and white carnations. Their delicate fragrance filled the air, a symbol of hope and renewal. 

The crowd, their hearts touched by this poignant scene, erupted in thunderous applause, their cheers echoing across the dock.

With a final, gracious curtsy, Alexandra boarded the train and as it pulled away from the station, the crowd's cheers followed her. 

The Princess, her heart brimming with emotion, left behind a legacy of kindness and compassion, a reminder that even in the darkest of times, human connection and empathy can shine through.