Controversy Surrounds Prince William’s New Role as King Charles III’s Heir
Prince William has been appointed as the new Colonel-in-Chief of the Army Air Corps by King Charles III on May 13, taking over the title previously held by the monarch for 32 years. This decision stirred some controversy as Prince Harry had stronger ties to the Army Air Corps.
Prince William, at 39 years old, underwent training as an Army Air Corps pilot in 2009 and served with them during his deployment to Afghanistan from 2012 to 2013. He achieved the rank of Apache helicopter commander during his decade-long military career and was recognized as Captain Harry Wales. His exceptional skills as a front-seat pilot were acknowledged by the British Defense Ministry in 2012 when he was named the best among his peers.
Although Prince William did not have the same military background with the Army Air Corps, the 41-year-old has substantial pilot experience, having worked as a Royal Air Force rescue pilot and serving as a full-time pilot with the East Anglian Air Ambulance from 2015 to 2017. King Charles emphasized William’s aviation expertise during the ceremony where he bestowed him with the prestigious title.