In a London court, cadets have accused Prince Harry of feigning a knee injury to evade military service.
The allegations stem from 147 stories published between 1996 and 2010 by Mirror Group newspapers, MGM titles, which reportedly used information obtained through unlawful means like phone hacking.
These articles delve into the Duke’s relationships with his family and ex-girlfriend Chelsea Davy, as well as his various injuries, illnesses, and military service.
One particular story, dated May 15th, 2005, detailed how the claimant, Prince Harry, was excused from marches at Sandhurst due to his alleged knee injury.
Cadets at the academy expressed anger over the prince being spared gruelling runs after citing his knee discomfort.
While MGM denies paying £150 for contributions to the article and claims much of the information came directly from Prince Harry himself, they assert that previous reports had already highlighted his ongoing knee issues.
During the court proceedings, Mr. Green questioned Prince Harry about the article’s accuracy, pointing out that it included quotes from the prince discussing his injury and disappointment at not being able to march.
Prince Harry acknowledged the details mentioned in the article, confirming that the incident occurred during his time at Sandhurst.
To bolster Mr. Green’s argument, former cadets have stepped forward to validate the story, emphasizing the scandalous nature of Prince Harry’s actions even for those disinterested in him.
The cadets at Sandhurst voiced their frustration at the perceived preferential treatment given to Prince Harry, who, after sustaining a knee injury while skiing, was excused from strenuous activities while his peers endured them.
Despite assurances that Prince Harry would resume running within days, cadets raised concerns that his special treatment could lead to them having to carry him during activities.
Speculation arose over the seriousness of his injury as he engaged in activities like skiing, horseback riding, partying, and surfing with Chelsea Davy before joining Sandhurst, prompting questions about his commitment to military service.
Referred to as Officer Cadet Wales, Prince Harry faced restrictions during his time at Sandhurst, including a ban on leaving the barracks for the initial five weeks of the 12-month course, no visitors allowed, and a prohibition on alcohol consumption.
Despite these constraints, he found solace in brief daily exchanges with Chelsea Davy via the academy’s computers, displaying a fondness for her that brought a smile to his face, according to insiders.
As the legal battle unfolds, the accusations against Prince Harry shed light on the complexities of his past and present, raising questions about his motivations and commitments.
The revelations from the court proceedings offer a glimpse into the challenges faced by members of the royal family, showcasing the intense scrutiny and expectations placed upon them in both personal and professional spheres.