Prince Harry attended the coronation of his father, King Charles III, on Saturday, May 6, without his wife, Meghan Markle, and their two young children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet.

The Duke of Sussex, who stepped down from his royal duties in 2020 and has been vocal about his family issues, now resides in the U.S.

Arriving alone at Westminster Abbey, Prince Harry was seen interacting with his cousins, Princess Eugenie and Princess Beatrice, along with their husbands, Jack Brooksbank and Edoardo Mappalimozzi.

He appeared lively and jovial, cracking jokes and strolling down the nave as if he were entering a party in Las Vegas.

However, Prince Harry’s demeanor changed when he discovered that Major Johnny Thompson, the king’s personal close protection officer, was seated just behind him.

His expression turned to astonishment, suggesting surprise or alarm.

Although it is unclear if Prince Harry was carrying any recording devices, Major Johnny Thompson had been assigned to sit behind him during the coronation rehearsal as part of the palace’s security arrangements.

Major Johnny Thompson, an equerry of King Charles III, is an officer of the royal household who assists members of the royal family.

As the king’s equerry, he meticulously plans and executes the monarch’s daily activities, including overseeing carriages, coaches, and Rolls-Royces used in state ceremonies.

Major Thompson also attends public events and maintains close contact with the king.

Prior to his current role, Major Thompson served as Queen Elizabeth II’s senior bodyguard, joining the army in 2006 and eventually becoming a platoon commander.

He has accompanied the queen during the Platinum Jubilee celebrations and joined King Charles and Camilla on their visit to Greece in 2021.

Major Thompson, who hails from Morpeth, Northumberland, resides in Surrey with his wife Caroline, a marketing manager, and their four-year-old son.

Having graduated from Aberystwyth University in 2004 with a degree in economics and politics with international studies, Major Thompson was a member of the Undergraduate Officer Training Corps during his time at university.

His expertise and experience make him an invaluable asset to the royal household, ensuring the safety and well-being of the king, queen consort, and other members of the royal family during important events like the coronation.

The presence of Major Johnny Thompson did not go unnoticed by viewers.

Many took to Twitter to express their admiration for the security officer’s professionalism and composure.

One user remarked, “Is anyone watching Major Johnny Thompson blocking Harry?

He’s cool.”

Another fan tweeted, “No lie, I’m so happy to meet Major Johnny Thompson.

He’ll make Harry cringe.”

Prince Harry’s reaction to Major Johnny Thompson’s presence highlights the importance placed on security during the coronation.

As King Charles III ascends to the throne, it is clear that measures are being taken to ensure the safety of the royal family and the smooth execution of the ceremony.

Major Johnny Thompson’s discreet yet vigilant role exemplifies the dedication and commitment of those tasked with protecting the monarchy.