Prince Harry’s induction into the cohort of living legends of aviation has caused a stir among former and current military pilots.
They have rejected his legend status and launched a petition to revoke his honor.
Harry, who served as an Apache helicopter pilot and completed two tours in Afghanistan, was announced as one of the recipients of the prestigious award.
The awards ceremony, hosted by John Travolta and scheduled for January 19 in Beverly Hills, will see Harry join esteemed names like Buzz Aldrin, Neil Armstrong, Tom Cruise, and Elon Musk in the Aviation Hall of Fame.
However, many military experts and veterans argue that Harry’s contribution does not warrant such a high accolade.
They claim that he has exaggerated and embellished his role and achievements as a pilot.
Furthermore, they accuse him of being disloyal and disrespectful to his former comrades and the institution that trained and supported him.
In response to these concerns, an online petition has been launched, gathering over 11,000 signatures.
The petition, initiated by a former RAF pilot, demands that the organizers of the award reconsider their decision and remove Harry from the list of honorees.
According to the petition, Harry’s role as a gunner, rather than a pilot, undermines his claim to be considered a legend of aviation.
Calling him such is seen as an insult to the thousands of pilots and crew who risk their lives daily in service to their countries.
The petition has garnered support from high-ranking former military figures, including retired Admiral of the Royal Navy Alan William John West.
He describes Harry’s award as “pathetic” and a joke.
West acknowledges that Harry was a decent chap during his military service but believes he has changed since marrying Meghan Markle.
West accuses Harry of becoming a self-obsessed and hypocritical celebrity who disregards his former colleagues and the values of the military.
He argues that Harry’s actions have tarnished his reputation and that of the armed forces.
Criticism of Harry’s award extends beyond military circles.
Many royal fans and commentators have expressed outrage over his behavior and actions since leaving the UK with Meghan Markle in 2020.
The couple has been accused of disrespecting the Queen, exploiting their royal titles, spreading lies and misinformation, and damaging the monarchy and the nation.
Their lavish lifestyle, political activism, and perceived hypocrisy on issues such as the environment, privacy, and mental health have also drawn criticism.
In contrast, Prince William, Harry’s brother, has been praised for his dedication and commitment to his royal duties.
William, who trained as a helicopter pilot and served as a search and rescue pilot in the RAF, followed by work as an air ambulance pilot, has shown support and respect for the military and veterans.
This comparison further highlights the dissatisfaction with Harry’s award.
Overall, Harry’s award has been met with widespread disapproval, leading many to believe that he made a significant mistake by leaving his royal role and pursuing a Hollywood fantasy.
He has lost the respect and support of his former comrades in the aviation community, gaining nothing but ridicule and resentment.
His actions have demonstrated a lack of duty and loyalty, painting him as a spoiled and selfish individual.
Ultimately, Harry has written his own downfall, with no one else to blame.