At the onset of this month, a notable event unfolded within the British royal family. Prince Harry made his return to London to commemorate the 10th anniversary of the Invictus Games. His presence in his homeland coincided with a significant moment for his brother, Prince William, as he received a noteworthy honor from King Charles. While some viewed the timing as mere coincidence, others interpreted it as a deliberate snub towards Prince Harry.
The Palace announced that King Charles III bestowed upon Prince William the title of Colonel-in-Chief of the Army Air Corps. The statement elucidated, “His Majesty the King will officially hand over the role of Colonel-in-Chief of the Army Air Corps to His Royal Highness the Prince of Wales. In August 2023, following His Majesty’s Accession, the King was pleased to announce military appointments, including that the Prince of Wales would become Colonel-in-Chief of the Army Air Corps. The role was previously held by His Majesty the King, as Prince of Wales, for 31 years.” This gesture not only underscores Prince William’s growing prominence within the royal hierarchy but also hints at the evolving dynamics within the family.
William’s new role places him in charge of Harry’s former unit. In 2008, Harry completed his Army Air Corps “Grading” and Pilot’s Selection Board interview, subsequently training as an Army Air Corps pilot in 2009.
“Upon successful completion of that Army Pilots Course, Prince Harry was selected to train on the Apache Attack Helicopter,” read Harry’s official biography before he was removed from the official royal family website. “On the same day, it was announced that Prince Harry received his provisional wings from his father.” Charles was colonel-in-chief of the Army Air Corps at the time, making the ceremony extra meaningful for Harry.
The unveiling of Prince William’s new designation comes at a time of heightened public interest, partly influenced by the strained relationship between Prince Harry and his father. Speculation surrounding the nature of their interactions, or the absence thereof, during Prince Harry’s recent trip to the U.K. highlights the complexities of royal relationships.
During Harry’s latest visit, he did not meet with his father, King Charles, due to the king’s “full schedule.” However, Prince Harry’s statement expressed his desire to see his father soon.
Despite the strained relationships with members of the Firm, Harry expressed his happiness about returning to the UK. He described the party as “amazing” and praised the work of Scotty’s, highlighting the incredible and necessary support they provide to children.
“The more opportunity you get to do these kinds of events, the more the families and kids know this place exists, which is really the most important thing,” Harry said, as reported by BBC.
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