MARY

During World War II, Mary, Princess Royal and Countess of Harewood, served as the Controller Commandant of the Auxiliary Territorial Service (ATS), a women's branch of the British Army. She frequently travelled the country in her uniform, visiting ATS units, military command stations, and canteens to support the troops. Her work also included supporting the British Red Cross, and her home, Harewood House, was used as a convalescent hospital. At the suggestion of Brigadier Genet she was petitioned to be the first Colonel-in-Chief of the Royal Canadian Corps of Signals. She accepted with effect from 29th May 1940 and held the appointment until her death in 1965.