Prince Harry’s latest recognition as a living legend of aviation has ignited a firestorm of outrage and ridicule from critics who argue that he is undeserving, hypocritical, and opportunistic.

The Duke of Sussex is slated to be inducted into the prestigious Living Legends of Aviation Hall of Fame, joining other esteemed aviators who have made significant contributions to the aerospace industry.

The star-studded ceremony, set to be hosted by John Travolta, will take place at the Beverly Hilton on January 19th and is expected to be attended by Harry and his wife Meghan Markle, who have been residing in California since stepping back from their royal duties in 2020.

The couple has been actively pursuing various media and commercial ventures, including a controversial memoir, a Netflix deal, and a podcast.

Harry’s induction into the Hall of Fame is primarily based on his experience as a helicopter pilot in the British Army, where he served for 10 years and completed two tours of duty in Afghanistan.

Additionally, he founded the Invictus Games, a sporting event dedicated to wounded veterans, which he will also be honored for at the ceremony.

However, Harry’s recognition as an aviation legend has faced strong backlash from former military colleagues, royal commentators, and social media users alike, all questioning his credentials, motives, and integrity.

Some of the criticisms include the assertion that Harry was merely a gunner, not a pilot, in his Apache helicopter, and that he did not perform any extraordinary feats that other helicopter gunners did not accomplish.

Furthermore, Harry has been accused of turning against his military family and betraying his oath to the Queen after disparaging his birth family and the royal institution in his memoir and his interview with Oprah Winfrey.

Critics argue that his remarks show disrespect and insensitivity towards the lives lost in Afghanistan, referring to them as mere chess pieces taken off the board, and failing to acknowledge their humanity and the impact on their families.

Moreover, Harry has been accused of exploiting his military service and royal status to enhance his celebrity profile and financial gain, while neglecting the genuine issues and challenges faced by veterans and active soldiers.

Detractors argue that he does not belong among the true legends of aviation, such as Neil Armstrong, Buzz Aldrin, Tom Cruise, Elon Musk, and Jeff Bezos, who have achieved far more in the field of aerospace.

Many of Harry’s critics also lay blame on Meghan Markle for his perceived downfall, alleging that she masterminded his decisions and actions.

They claim that she manipulated him into abandoning his royal and military duties, alienating his family and friends, and pursuing a self-serving and divisive agenda.

Some even suggest that she influenced him to emulate her style and tactics, such as writing a memoir, suing the media, and portraying herself as a victim.

Harry and Meghan have yet to respond to the criticism directly, but a source close to them revealed that they are proud and excited about the award.

They view it as an opportunity to celebrate Harry’s achievements and contributions, as well as raise awareness and funds for the Invictus Games.

The source further emphasized that Harry and Meghan have no regrets regarding their choices and are content with their new life in America.

Despite the controversy and calls for Harry’s nomination to be revoked, the Living Legends of Aviation Hall of Fame ceremony will proceed as planned.

Whether this controversy will tarnish the event’s reputation or impact attendance remains to be seen.