Britain’s Prince William was commissioned as an officer in the British Army on Friday. He was commissioned upon his graduation from Sandhurst Military Academy. The Sandhurst graduates marched in review in what the British call the Sovereign’s parade.
Queen Elizabeth II, Prince William’s grandmother, served as reviewing officer. She reminded the cadets of what is expected of them.
“For those who are to be commissioned today and to those who will shortly follow, a great deal will be expected of you.
“You must be courageous yet selfless, leaders yet carers, confident yet considerate.
“And you must be all these things in some of the most challenging environments around the world so that men and women will willingly follow your lead into every possible situation with absolute trust in your judgment.
“These are very special attributes, but those whom you will command, and your country too, will expect nothing less.”
He is expected to join The Household Cavalry’s Blues and Royals regiment, where he will train to become a troop leader in charge of armoured reconnaissance vehicles. Both Prince William and his brother Prince Harry, who graduated and was commissioned from Sandhurst in April, have indicated they are prepared to fight in conflict zones.
There’s some speculation as to whether or not he will ever see combat. As heir to the throne some say he should not be put at risk. However, his new boss sees it differently.
Major General Sebastian Roberts, General officer commanding the Household Division and Prince William’s new boss, indicated it was possible that the prince could be deployed to a conflict zone.
“Of course there are special factors for William, but nothing should be ruled in or out,” he said, addding the Prince had done “very well” at the military academy in Camberley, Surrey.
The prince will now spend four months at Bovington Camp in Dorset, training to become a troop commander in an armoured reconnaissance unit.
Unlike Prince Harry who will continue as a “career soldier”, Prince William will go on to spend time with both the Royal Air Force and Royal Navy on familiarisation attachments to prepare him for his future role.
I would think that the heir to the throne of England should participate in the defense of his country just as he has been trained to do. By doing so he will be better trained for his position as King of England. Through serving his country honorably in battle he will have done more to earn the title of King.
That is, after all, how his ancestors became kings.
The Queen tells William she’ll be praying for him.
The Prince’s Sandhurst colleagues describe him as just a normal guy.
Royal photo gallary
