LONDON, Dec. 25 (UPI) -- Britain's queen delivered a special Christmas message Saturday for her nation's troops serving in Iraq, Sky News reported.
The recorded radio message is thought to be the first of its kind in Queen Elizabeth's 52-year reign, and comes in addition to her traditional Christmas message.
Her message, which focused on "tolerance and respect in a changing world," was played during breakfast shows on the British Forces Broadcasting Service to British forces in Iraq, Germany and Brunei, a spokesman for the royal family said.
"Very many of you listening today will be separated from your families this Christmas, which is hard for both you and those who are left at home," she said.
"It has been a very demanding year. I am proud of the way you have risen to the challenges with typical professionalism.
"Wherever you are I would like to express my gratitude for your service this year and I send each and every one of you my good wishes for Christmas and the New Year."
A full text version of her message is available at royal.gov.uk.
