Britain's Queen Mother Turns 100

L O N D O N, Aug. 4 -- Britain’s Queen Mother, 100 years old today, is having a birthday party like no other.

Thousands of well-wishers have gathered outside the Queen Mum’s residence, Clarence House. Thousands more line The Mall and surround Buckingham Palace, hoping to catch a glimpse of the Royal Family’s first centenarian.

A carriage ride down The Mall, a 41-gun salute, marching bands playing “Happy Birthday” and a big bash at Windsor Castle are among the tributes and pageants planned for the Queen Mum’s special day.

The day packed with festivities is the climax to several weeks of centenary celebrations.

Britain’s newspapers saluted the Queen Mother with massive photo spreads. The Daily Telegraph featured 100 pictures of the Queen Mother dating from 1900, while The Times carried a 28-page section illustrating her life.

Honoring a Beloved Royal

Cards, gifts and tributes are pouring in from around the world. The Royal Mail says it has been receiving 15,000 to 20,000 letters a day for the Queen Mother.

Many Britons remember the Queen Mother as Queen Elizabeth, consort of King George VI.

During World War II she won the hearts of her people by remaining in London during the heavy bombing and years of deprivation.

Russian President Vladimir Putin sent his congratulations saying her wartime role in rallying opposition to Adolf Hitler had inspired many of his compatriots.

French President Jacques Chirac paid tribute to the “elegant courage” the Queen Mother showed during World War II and thanked her for supporting the French during those “difficult hours.”

Possibly the best-loved member of the Royal Family, the Queen Mum has remained a symbol of grace and stability in an era of upheaval for the British Royals.

“I think that the Queen Mother is an incredible lady. She’s coped with an awful lot in her life and never made a bad name for herself,” says a fan along the parade route. “She represents what the Royal Family should be, which is dignified and caring.”