Royal Family’s Longstanding Tradition of Secret Codenames
Operation London Bridge famously outlined protocols for Queen Elizabeth II’s passing, but fewer know she went by ‘Sharon’ in private security circles. The royal family has employed secret codenames for decades to enhance security and shield sensitive discussions from eavesdroppers.
Royal expert Laura Windsor notes that this practice originated with manual palace switchboard operators who could overhear calls. ‘These switchboard operators could listen in on every conversation, so royal code names were used to prevent them from finding out any important news before the royal family did themselves,’ Windsor stated.
The codenames persist today, aiding discreet planning for travel and major events. Windsor adds, ‘Arrangements involving the royals take a long time to unfold, so using code names doesn’t arouse any suspicion.’ She compares it to celebrities using aliases at hotels.
Historical and Modern Codenames
The earliest documented royal death codename was ‘Hyde Park Corner’ for King George VI in 1952, distinct from later bridge-themed operations.
Queen Elizabeth II: London Bridge and Sharon
Plans for the late queen’s death activated under Operation London Bridge, with officials notified that ‘London Bridge is down’ upon her 2022 passing. This protocol dated back to the 1960s, possibly inspired by a nursery rhyme and the bridge’s proximity to Buckingham Palace.
Security personnel also called her ‘Sharon’ or ‘S.’ Prince Philip affectionately used ‘Lilibet’ or ‘cabbage’ for her in private.
Prince Philip: Forth Bridge
Following Prince Philip’s 2021 death, Operation Forth Bridge took effect, honoring the Scottish railway bridge and his Duke of Edinburgh title.
King Charles III: Menai Bridge and Unicorn
King Charles III’s contingency plans, Operation Menai Bridge, reference the Welsh suspension bridge tied to his former Prince of Wales title. U.S. Secret Service agents nicknamed him ‘Unicorn’ during a 1971 visit, nodding to Scotland’s national animal. The name surfaced publicly after a 1988 Swiss avalanche incident.
Princess Diana and Queen Mother: Tay Bridge
Princess Diana shared the Tay Bridge codename with the Queen Mother. Windsor explains, ‘Princess Diana died very suddenly. She was so young that nobody thought she would be dying anytime soon, so she had not yet been given her own codename.’
Prince William and Kate: Danny Collins and Daphne Clark
As Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, Prince William and Kate used the aliases Danny Collins and Daphne Clark, matching their initials. These likely updated after becoming Prince and Princess of Wales.
Prince Harry and Meghan: David Stevens and Davina Scott
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle adopted David Stevens and Davina Scott as working royals. Their status post-royal duties leaves these names’ current use uncertain.
