Queen Elizabeth II yesterday lays a wreath at Ground Zero

An emotional Queen Elizabeth II yesterday laid a wreath at Ground Zero the sight of the 9/11 attack and then addressed the United Nations in her first visit to New York City in nearly 35 years. Her Royal Highness didn’t let the record heat slow her down and shook hands and briefly talked with relatives of 9/11 victims after she laid a wreath of peonies, roses and lilies on a wooden riser near the footprint of what was once the World Trade Center’s south tower.

The 84-year-old monarch braved the scorching heat in a floral-print matching jacket and skirt accented by white gloves, and black patent-leather shoes that matched her purse. Arriving 15 minutes early to the World Trade Center, where she greeted dignitaries including Mayor Bloomberg, Gov. Paterson and New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie.

After receiving a bouquet of flowers from one of Christie’s daughters, she shook hands with 9/11 families and first responders. The queen, accompanied by her husband, Prince Philip, started her five-hour whirlwind tour of Manhattan at the United Nations, where she addressed the General Assembly for the first time since her first appearance there 53 years ago.

The queen ended the day by formally opening the British Memorial Garden at Hanover Square in lower Manhattan, dedicated to the 67 British victims of 9/11. It was noted that the queen never appeared to perspire in the 103-degree heat.

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