Prince William Quits Armed Forces For Royal Engagements

RAF helicopter pilot Prince William at the controls of a Sea King helicopter working for the search-and-rescue service
RAF helicopter pilot Prince William at the controls of a Sea King helicopter working for the search-and-rescue service

Duke of Cambridge, Prince William is to leave the armed forces and temporarily focus on official engagements both in Britain and overseas, Kensington Palace says.

The new father will spend the next year considering his future work options with an announcement on that to come “in due course”.

Prince William’s wife Kate gave birth to baby George in July.

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Prince William has been working as an RAF search and rescue helicopter pilot in Wales.

But the palace on Thursday announced “the Duke is to leave operational service in the armed forces”.

“He completes his tour with the RAF search and rescue force … after more than seven-and-a-half years of full-time military service,” the palace said in a statement.

Prince William plans to support the work of the Queen and the royal family through a program of official engagements with Kate.

Over the next 12 months he’ll work with the Royal Foundation of The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and Prince Harry.

“He will expand his work in the field of conservation particularly in respect of endangered species,” the palace said, adding he’d also continue to work with his charities on issues relating to children, young people, veterans and serving members of the armed forces.

As to his long-term future, the palace stated: “The Duke is currently considering a number of options for public service, a further announcement on which will follow in due course.”

William, Kate and little Prince George are expected to move into their official residence at Kensington Palace within the next few weeks.

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