The Queen Holds Her First Investiture -- Private William Speakman, V.C., leaving the London Assembly centre on his way to Buckingham palace to receive his decoration. It is customary for all ranks (including officers) to salute a Victoria Cross. Here private Speakman Acknowledges the salutes of two officers and a sergeant. In the white and Gold Ball Room of Buckingham Place the Queen held the first investure of her reign this morning. More than 100 people have been summoned to the investure chief among them being private William Speakman of the Black-Watch. February 27, 1952. (Photo by Paul Popper).