Royal British Legion Praise Prince Philip for His Service as Their Community Mourns His Death

The Royal British Legion paid tribute to Prince Philip after serving in the Royal Navy during World War II: “A courageous character and proud veteran, Prince Philip.”

Britain is in a state of mourning as their longest-reigning consort, Prince Philip, passed away on Friday, April 9, 2021. The royal died a few days shy of the Queen’s birthday and a couple of months from what would be his 100th birthday.

Several royal family members, British personalities, and foundations have since paid tribute to the 99-year-old through interviews and social media posts, including the Royal British Legion.

A SALUTE FROM THE LEGION

In their recent statement, the organization mourned the loss of a great hero, a Royal Navy veteran, and a lifetime member of the Legion. They remembered Philip for his accomplishments while serving the Royal Navy during World War II.

The Duke of Edinburgh was present during the Battle of Cape Matapan, serving as a sub-lieutenant in the HMS Valiant. He later became a first lieutenant and second in command of the HMS Wallace.

Philip was also on board the HMS Whelp during the Japanese surrender at Tokyo Bay, together with the British Pacific Fleet. Even after his duties as a serving officer, the royal still showed patronage by attending several Remembrance events.

REMEMBERING A BRAVE MAN

In 1953, a year after leaving his post to aid his wife, the Queen, Philip was awarded honorary appointments as the Royal Air Force Marshal, British Army Field Marshal, and Fleet Admiral.

He also revealed that his Queen Elizabeth, although stoic, is feeling a great loss.

“A courageous character and proud veteran, Prince Philip embodied the fortitude and resilience of our Second World War generation and Armed Forces,” the Legion wrote, adding that they were grateful for his service.

CARDIFF GUN SALUTE

In honor of Philip, a 41-round gun salute took place in Cardiff Castle while Royal Navy ships in the waters participated in the event. Those who took part in the mourning ceremony were saddened and honored to have paid tribute to the royal.

The Royal Welsh Yacht Club also had a 41-shot gun salute in Caernarfon, Gwynedd, to honor their patron. Because of the COVID-19 restrictions, only 30 individuals will be allowed in the duke’s funeral service, including a royal procession following Philip’s casket.

Attendees include all of Philip’s kids and grandchildren. However, Prince William and Kate Middleton’s children were to stay protected indoors. Meanwhile, Prince Harry flew in from California to participate in his grandfather’s funeral.

PRINCE ANDREW’S TRIBUTE

Prince Andrew recently paid tribute to his father and praised him for being a great man of service. He also revealed that his Queen Elizabeth, although stoic, is feeling a great loss. The Duke of York said:

“She described it as having left a huge void in her life."

Prince Andrew is the second eldest son of the royal couple, followed by Prince Edward, the youngest child. Prince Philip, the heir to the British throne, is the eldest, followed by Princess Anne, the only daughter.