In a momentous shift within the British royal family, King Charles has officially passed the title of Colonel-in-Chief of the Army Air Corps to his eldest son, Prince William.
This significant change in leadership comes on the heels of a scandal involving the Pat Tillman awards, which has cast a shadow over Prince Harry’s previous role.
The ceremony took place on July 15, 2024, at the Army Aviation Centre in Middle Wallop, southern England, marking a new chapter for the royal family and the military unit.
At 75 years old, King Charles arrived at the military base with a sense of purpose, ready to honor his son, the 41-year-old Prince of Wales.
This event was more than just a formality; it symbolized a passing of the torch from Harry, the Duke of Sussex, who previously held the position.
Harry, now 39, had a distinguished military career as an Apache helicopter pilot in Afghanistan, but since stepping back from royal duties and relocating to the U.S. with Meghan Markle in 2020, the responsibilities of this prestigious role have shifted to his brother.
The ceremony attracted a crowd of royal supporters eager to witness this historic occasion.
As Charles and William made their entrance, they were met with a Guard of Honour and welcomed by Lieutenant General Sir Nicholas Porton, the Colonel Commandant of the Army Air Corps.
They were then escorted to the Army Flying Museum, where the King unveiled a plaque commemorating the arrival of the first Apache Mark 1 helicopter in the UK.
This particular aircraft played a crucial role in the Battle of Jug Room in Afghanistan in 2007, a defining moment for British forces.
Following the formalities, father and son posed for photographs in front of the Apache, surrounded by members of the Army Air Corps.
William, who has undergone military training himself, had the chance to sit in the front seat of an Apache attack helicopter during this visit, further cementing his ties to the unit.
Both princes are trained military pilots, though Harry’s experience is notably deeper, having served over three years in the Army Air Corps.
Reports suggest that this decision by King Charles to appoint William as Colonel-in-Chief has deeply affected Harry, leaving him in tears.
The younger prince has often expressed feelings of being sidelined and undervalued within the royal family.
Royal expert Tom Quinn pointed out that the timing of the announcement—made while Harry was in the UK—could be interpreted as a signal that the King’s younger son is no longer welcome in certain royal circles.
This transition within the Army Air Corps highlights the evolving dynamics of the royal family.
As the brothers navigate their changing roles and relationships, the passing of authority from Harry to William serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing shifts within the monarchy.
It reflects not only personal struggles but also broader efforts to maintain stability and continuity in the institution.
While the royal family continues to adapt to these changes, the implications of this leadership shift are far-reaching.