A thread dedicated to discussion and articles regarding Wills time in training and in service with the RAF, SAR and EAAA. :RAFWilliam:
Does Prince WIlliam start his helicapoter training? Is it going to be March? :Royal: :yessir: Will their be pictures? :pics: :hmm:
http://www.shropshirestar.com/2009/01/12/william-back-at-county-base/
William back at county base.
http://www.raf.mod.uk/careers/lifeintheraf/youandyourfamily.cfm
Life in the RAF - You and your family.
QuoteWill I get to see my family and friends?
After initial training, you're free to go home at weekends if you're not on duty. Initial training includes weekends as well as weekdays. Generally after around three weeks you will be able to go home for a weekend.
Most people in the RAF work regular hours – Monday to Friday, doing an eight-hour day, with evenings and weekends free. If you're not on duty then after initial training you can leave the base whenever you want. You also get six weeks of paid annual holiday.
If your work keeps you away from home a few days or more, or at the weekends, you'll get the equivalent time off. Longer hours are only the norm if you're on an important mission or detachment.
QuoteWhat's the accommodation really like?
Accommodation during training
For the first weeks during basic training, you'll share accommodation with other new recruits so you can get to know them. There's about 14 people per room, so it's a great opportunity to build friendships. The RAF supplies your accommodation and food and will launder your bedding, but you'll be expected to do your own laundry (there's a launderette on base), look after your kit and equipment, and keep your sleeping area tidy.
Do I have to live on an airbase?
You live on base for your initial training so you can get to know people. It's also a chance to find out what life in the RAF is really like.
After that, it's your choice.
Living in the 'Mess'
You might choose to live on base in the 'Mess'. This is a bit like being in halls of residence at uni. You get subsidised accommodation and food, great leisure and sports facilities, and a real sense of community. It also makes budgeting simple as your rent and food costs will be deducted from your pay.
You might prefer to commute from home, or rent nearby.
According to this article, Prince William will have to make a decision by the end of 2012. "The deadline has been imposed by the RAF's chain of command."
The article says that Prince William has the following options:
1. He can continue his career at RAF Valley, or relocate to another RAF base for a second three-year tour of duty.
2. He could also extend his current tour of duty for a short period.
3. He can take another posting within the Armed Forces, something he is said to be seriously considering.
4. The final option is for him to quit the Forces and focus full-time on the work of his charitable foundation and Royal duties.
Which option do you think Prince William will take?
RAF tells Prince he has to choose between flying and Royal duties | Mail Online (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2140197/RAF-tells-Prince-choose-flying-Royal-duties.html)
I think he will choose to extend his time in the RAF. He clearly isn't interested in being a full time royal - accepts it as his destiny but wants to delay it as along as possible and extending his service in the RAF will allow him to do that. It would also mean Kate won't have to undertake a full load either so will be at home with their future children and that those children might even have a couple of years of peace from the prying abusive demands of the public for photos all the time - precious days indeed for the family - something denied both William and his father.
What an awful position for him to be in. To decide this must be tearing him up and I mean that sincerely.
16 December 2006 or 1 Jan 2007 - 1 Jan 2008: Second Lieutenant
1 Jan 2008 - 1 Jan 2009: Lieutenant, Fg Off & Sub Lieutenant
1 Jan 2009 - Current (6 May 2012): Captain, Flg Lt & Lieutenant
Prince William or should I say Flight Lieutenant Wales has only been military for 5 years 5 months or six years. He has only been in RAF 'full time' for 3 years which hardly a career even he adds three more years. However, I think maybe transferred to Reserve and possibly transfer so he have much more of a full Diary of Royal Engagements.
Quote from: Jenee on May 07, 2012, 02:44:50 AM
I see no reason for William to give up the military now. He won't be King for decades, at least he is making himself useful in the RAF
Exactly! He may move to a position where he's on a less demanding schedule, especially since that will mean that Kate won't be all alone in being "full-time." But, I don't think he'll quit. There's just no reason for him to do it.
If he doesn't know what to do by now then The Queen has failed in one of her most important duties - training her heirs to replace her.
William has been trained from birth to be King one day - even going to visit the Queen from Eton for discussions etc. He is as fully trained now as he needs to be.
memememe: You've hit the nail on the head. :goodpost:
Perhaps I am a bit naive in the ways of the royals, but I don't see how Prince William having a career is an issue? He is not the immediate heir to the throne, yet the RAF would have been well aware when they took him on that he would have to be treated differently (such as allowing time off for Royal Events etc.). This isn't something that Prince William has come into recently, so why now would the RAF raise a fuss? Personally I think it is great that he has a separate career. Given the state of the Eurozone and Britain's economy I think it a wise move not to rush the Duke and Duchess into "full time royal" status just yet.
It is a fact that the Queen does not take kindly to ideas of abdication and retirement. :thumbsup:
Quote from: Jmax2 on May 09, 2012, 02:24:54 AM
Quote from: Trudie on May 08, 2012, 01:25:03 AM
Quote from: sandy on May 07, 2012, 02:14:04 PM
The point is nobody can predict how long William will wait before he becomes King. I think he needs to have some preparation. He could go into the reserves and be able to step up royal duties if he doesn't completely quit.
:
:goodpost: Totally reasonable Sandy I completely agree with you that would solve the problem of William and his need to be serving in the military which he seems to enjoy and stepping up as second in line to the throne.
Yes, but the Queen got the throne at 27, and seems to have had no more training than William has. She's doing fine. Honestly, I think if he can, he'll stay in the RAF. My guess is that he'll take another 3.5 year stint and work it out so that he be available for more public events.
Maybe he can train others to do what he does. That might make his schedule less time consuming.
The Princess Elizabeth was a stand in for her ailing father on major tours and royal appearances. She was active and didn't sit home (it's a myth that she was in Malta from the wedding to the time her father died). She had access to her father's State Papers and was working closely with him on training. She did a major tour with Philip of the U.S. and Canada and was en route to an Australian tour when her father passed on. She had a huge work ethic even back then. She had tons more training than William and at a younger age too!
She also became Queen at age 25.
William is not your average "military man" theoreticallly he would have to quit in the event of the incapacity of his father or grandmother and/or a serious terrorist threat.
I've never seen any pictures at all of the Princess Elizabeth going over papers with her father, nor have I seen any pictures of Prince Charles going over papers with his mother. I'm sure both must have happened, though. Perhaps William has gone over papers with his grandmother, as well. I don't think we'd be allowed to have access to photos, though, because of the sensitivity of the papers. That said, I have no doubt that if the Queen were to pass on tomorrow, Charles would be able to step into the role comfortably. I also have no doubt that if both the Queen and Charles were to pass on tomorrow at the same time, William would be able to step in confidently. The Royals don't leave anything to chance.
Cindy
Quote from: cinrit on May 09, 2012, 03:58:08 PM
I've never seen any pictures at all of the Princess Elizabeth going over papers with her father, nor have I seen any pictures of Prince Charles going over papers with his mother. I'm sure both must have happened, though. Perhaps William has gone over papers with his grandmother, as well. I don't think we'd be allowed to have access to photos, though, because of the sensitivity of the papers. That said, I have no doubt that if the Queen were to pass on tomorrow, Charles would be able to step into the role comfortably. I also have no doubt that if both the Queen and Charles were to pass on tomorrow at the same time, William would be able to step in confidently. The Royals don't leave anything to chance.
Cindy
Exactly - The Queen has trained both William and Charles since they were born to take over one day.
They have both served as Counsellors of State so have signed documents and chaired privy council meetings etc and will continue to do so for the rest of their lives (Charles has been doing that since he turned 18 and William since he turned 21 - along with Harry and Andrew who will both continue in that role for many many years).
I totally agree. William has been trained in the important aspects of being King. he's also shown that he's able to handle the little things like cutting ribbons,etc. On walkabouts, he seems to connect well with people from all walks of life, shows compassion,empathy,etc.
I feel that William should not follow Charles in leaving the services too early. Lessons may have been learnt from how Diana was handled, but I think lessons were also learnt from how Charles was handled. We certainly don't want Wills hanging around for decades, waiting to be King! At least Charles has lands to manage. Wills won't even have that!
Another Katie Nicholl fiction. The queen is pleased that William is serving his country in such a selfless way and has condoned it. The RAF have no complaints because he works when he is supposed to do so.
Quote from: sandy on May 09, 2012, 04:05:09 PM
It's all in books about the Queen (pics of her working with her father)--how she worked with her father and stood in for him--it's even in the Shawcross book about the Queen Mum. I am not so sure about Will's stepping in to the role "confidently." He won't have time for all the vacations anymore and he has gotten used to a certain lifestyle.
The Princess stood in for the King on a few occasions, however never did the Princess deal with any of the official paperwork from the Red Boxes, it is safe to say that she probably did help the King with minor paperwork like private correspondence or Orders-in-Council approving government appointments, but the more serious papers were for the King, and the King only! This is probably the case today, the Prince of Wales and Prince William probably have 'trained' with the Queen when she is dealing with minor things, but the more sensitive stuff they probably never seen.
I had read that when William was at Eton and going to Windsor for tea with The Queen she would ask how he was getting on and then she would tell him about her week. The idea being that if she discussed her week and who she met and other responsibilities she had it was a way of training him in a relaxed atmosphere. I even read that she would sneak in her own history lesson on her predecessors.
Yes, it is true! The Queen grew very close to Prince William during his time at Eton, the Prince would often visit Her Majesty - not only would they share their experiences of the past week, but they would also go for walks and take out the horses too. I am sure The Queen used this time to help prepare Prince William for the role he will one day inherit. :)
Quote from: Yangkueifa on May 13, 2012, 12:41:11 PM
I'm not at all sure about starting official BRF. duties too soon. Likelihood is higher that he'll have a long wait before he becomes king. Hanging around waiting to fulfill your destiny can be quite a strain, especially if you're not even the next in line. Charle's frustrations/discontent should serve as an eexample. Better to leave him in the army until he becomes Prince of Wales. That would be the logical time for him to start full public duties.
Imo, the things he needs to earn at present are not the public role, as he has demonstrated his ease with the public. What he needs to do now is learn about land management ( for the duchy of Cornwall ) as well as the behind the scenes running of the government plus knowledge of the realms and commonwealth. All these, obviously, would be more private than public, but of much more importance than cutting ribbons,etc.Of course, HM would not neglect this aspect of his training, so I think the Queen still knows best. :flower:
Plus, if he's already had a long and fulfilling career in the military, he won't feel such a need to "find a purpose" and may well be content to do the "smile and wave at the little people" sort of events. That way too William won't be given to "whinging" (my new favorite British word!) endlessly about how he is perceived in the public, or complaining about petty things like modern architecture.
I have absolutely no issues with the heir to the heir spending his time in the military while doing part time royal duties. He is getting a well rounded experience background. It isn't like he is spending his time sitting on a sunlounger staring at his navel.
Quote from: sandy on May 13, 2012, 05:03:55 PM
William has no clue as to when he will be POW or King. I don't thnk he's all that well prepared. And being a royal is a lot more than "cutting ribbons" (I am surprised that some postersn here diminish royal duties so much."
We really have no way of knowing how "prepared" William is, or really, how much preparation is actually needed. And, really, what else do they do? They don't run the government, that's David Cameron and company. They don't actually deploy the army, again, David Cameron and company. Sarah Palin got into all sorts of trouble for assuming that the Queen did. There are certainly cheaper ways to promote charities. Besides, if Britains are asked why they think the country needs a monarchy they inveritably answer "tourism." At least online. So forgive me if I'm unconvinced. What does Prince Andrew do that's NEEDED? Not nice to do, or really brave or cool of him, but necessary for the UK or the commonwealth? What does Prince Charles do for that matter? And, please don't say "the Princes Trust." I'm sure it's a lovely organization, but if the need for something like it exists, someone will start it. You don't need princes for that. They bring no more attention to a charity than non-royals do. Honestly, the US has a boatload of charities, and no royals.
So what are they needed for if not ribbon cutting?
Quote from: sandy on May 13, 2012, 05:03:55 PM
I think WIll is just staying in the SAR to postpone taking up royal duties full time since I think his issues stem from being uncomfortable wth his future role. If he has this aversion, there are serious issues for him and the Monarchy in future.
I think this is really an unfair assumption. Nothing in PW's behavior suggests that he's shying away from Royal "duties." On the contrary, when he does events, he seems very enthusiastic (occasional comments aside.) Looking at from the outside in, the British public is dicey. They want the royals to be "seen." But they don't want to see too much. Yet, they gobble up every scrap of info they can about them.
I can see how the military affords William the ability to limit information, while still making public appearances. I still don't see him leaving, and I think it would be a grave miscalculation if he did. He's the most popular royal right now. Why blow that?
QuoteWhy could he not be given a Governorship, ( sorry , not putting this correctly)for NZ, Australia, or any other country in this realm? Allow him and his future family a time out of The UK, in this position.
I know that New Zealand, Australia, and Canada choose locals for this position, and they all have prescribed ways in which they do so. I'm not sure about the rest, but I'd imagine they aren't much different. If they were, QEII would already have posted family members to those locales.
I just don't think this is an option in 2012.
I apologise in advance for my inability to put in a clear and concise manner the actual roles of a monarch in a constitutional monarchy.
They are like a back up plan in case politicians and/or the military fail us. The monarch has to be above politics. To be able to fulfill their role, they must also be able to command the loyalty of the majority f the population and the military .As I have said, the British monarch has never had to use any of her discretionary powers to use as the UK is a mature democracy that functions well.
If an elected government refuses to dissolve parliament and call for elections when it's supposed to, the monarch can help.Obviously, if elections are called every 5 years, everything is as it should be and the monarch need not do anything except continue with their ceremonial role.
It's not the role of the monarch to lead rebellions. However, military personnel do swear an oath of loyalty to the monarch. Again, in a worst case scenario, eg military coup, the monarch can step in and encourage peaceful discussion to try and avert disaster. Again, as mentioned, this would be very unlikely to happen in the UK, but it has happened in other constitutional monarchies.
I hope I have managed to explain some of the more important reasons some countries have monarchs.I apologise if it's rather garbled, as English is not my first language.
I suppose that those who have lived under governments that have made us yearn for intervention from our monarch can appreciate how important having a good monarch is. And we envy the British their royal family.
I think William will choose to stay with SAR for a bit longer. I don't think he wants full-time royal duties just yet. He probably knows how his father was affected by his lack of a proper role, despite being Prince of Wales and all that entails. William wants to be useful in his own way and I expect he would be stubborn enough to do whatever was necessary to ensure he got his point across.
I think too that he will be criticised either way, whether or not he were to choose to exit SAR or not. It's been very expensive training him to do the job he is currently doing and I would think that it would have been rather a waste for him to give it up quite so soon after becoming fully qualified. However, I can see the other point of view too. Maybe some would feel he should move aside for someone else to take up the opportunity and make a proper career of it.
William will turn thirty next month. I reckon he could safely have another three years or so pursuing the military option before he were to take on full-time royal duties. Perhaps he and Kate will start a family during this time and they could have a few "quieter" years with some babies.
Whatever his decision, we will be seeing a lot more of both William and Kate this year, what with the Jubilee and the Olympics. I will be very interested to see what choice he actually makes (but probably not surprised.) ;)
Sandy, I thought William and Kate were living in a farmhouse or some such, but off base? Couldn't they start a family in just such a situation? I don't see them having to live on base and therefore, not able to have their children living with them. :shrug:
I think you're right about not indulging William too much and letting him have his own way but I feel he probably does get what he wants quite a lot of the time. I think he wants to do things his way and, as much as possible, in his own time and I wouldn't be surprised to learn that he is quite capable of putting his point across very firmly.
I take your point that perhaps he should be stepping up to the plate and that now would be a good time for him to start doing royal duties on a full-time basis, especially as the Queen is not getting any younger but I feel he will be allowed to continue with his military career if that is what he wants to do.
QuoteTHE Duke of Cambridge is to leave the RAF base in Anglesey where he is nearing the end of a 3-year tour of duty as a Sea King helicopter pilot.
Prince William has told his commanding officer at RAF Valley search and rescue force that he has decided it is the right time to "move on". He is expected to leave in the summer but it is not clear whether he will take up other duties in the armed forces.
http://www.thesundaytimes.co.uk/sto/news/uk_news/National/royalwedding/article1251979.ece?CMP=OTH-gnws-standard-2013_04_27
Cindy
IMO, the real reason why he is quitting is because the RAF is being privatized, and downsized, and more likely than not this isn't him "quitting" so much as being told that they need to allow those men and women who actually need the job to stay on.
Prince William repordely leaving the RAF - hellomagazine.com (http://www.hellomagazine.com/royalty/2013042811989/prince-william-leaves-raf/)
Not so much to keep the people who need to be working SAR but those have not yet work what their next posting wether with or not with SAR is going to be. Some of the RAF pilots are staying on for a period of time either to training the civi pilots for SAR work if they don't already have that training since it a new helicopter.
However, William is either going to stay in the military probably the Blues and Royals with increased royal duties or full time royal duties.
Quote from: Lothwen on April 28, 2013, 04:57:44 PM
IMO, the real reason why he is quitting is because the RAF is being privatized, and downsized, and more likely than not this isn't him "quitting" so much as being told that they need to allow those men and women who actually need the job to stay on.
:goodpost:
Prince William completes his last shift as an RAF pilot - hellomagazine.com (http://www.hellomagazine.com/royalty/201309117203/prince-william-last-raf-shift/)
QuotePrince William's RAF rescue team was the busiest helicopter unit in the country during his final year with the military. His team based at RAF Valley on Anglesey were scrambled 323 times and rescued 298 people during 2013.
The Duke of Cambridge quit his search and rescue pilot role with C Flight of 22 Squadron in September after three years.
He took part in many daring rescue missions in the mountains of Snowdonia and rough waters of the Irish Sea.
Figures from the RAF revealed how the Prince's search and rescue team accounted for more than a quarter of the 1,202 emergency alerts from 10 bases across Britain last year.
More: Prince William's RAF team saved most people during future king's final year with military - Mirror Online (http://www.mirror.co.uk/news/uk-news/prince-williams-raf-team-saved-3006160?)
Cindy
Quote from: sandy on January 10, 2014, 03:47:21 PM
I think all the men are to be commended. This is doing William no favors having his presence being credited with the most rescues.
I really don't see that William is being given the credit for the rescues. It says "the team". Of course had he not been connected with the team there would probably have been no credit given to any of them. That's the press for you.
I posted this article on another thread
Duke of Cambridge's former RAF search and rescue unit 'busiest in Britain' | UK | News | Daily Express (http://www.express.co.uk/news/uk/452928/Duke-of-Cambridge-s-former-RAF-search-and-rescue-unit-busiest-in-Britain)
William is mentioned because we know who he is. If we knew the others on his team, I'm sure they'd be mentioned, as well. As missbliss says, that's the media for you ... they mention the name that will sell the most papers or induce the most clicks online. This from the article:
QuoteGroup Capt Mackmin said: “The harsh, protracted winter that lasted from January through to early April saw C Flight complete a higher than average number of rescues.
“They were also accomplished in some of the worst weather conditions Snowdonia has seen for many years.
“I’m incredibly proud of all the men and women under my command who go out by day and night, in all weathers, united with one common aim - the preservation of life.”
Cindy
Quote from: PrincessOfPeace on January 16, 2014, 06:18:03 AM
Quote from: cinrit on January 10, 2014, 05:16:19 PM
William is mentioned because we know who he is. If we knew the others on his team, I'm sure they'd be mentioned, as well. As missbliss says, that's the media for you ... they mention the name that will sell the most papers or induce the most clicks online. This from the article:
QuoteGroup Capt Mackmin said: "The harsh, protracted winter that lasted from January through to early April saw C Flight complete a higher than average number of rescues.
"They were also accomplished in some of the worst weather conditions Snowdonia has seen for many years.
"I'm incredibly proud of all the men and women under my command who go out by day and night, in all weathers, united with one common aim - the preservation of life."
Cindy
Exactly. The article praises all members of the RAF SAR including William. He shouldn't be embarrassed or downplay his role in saving lives just because he is a member of the BRF. The entire team is to be commended and that includes William, after all he put his life on the line as much as any other crew member. SAR is some of the most dangerous work in the military.
I'm going to guess that the individuals who were rescued by SAR were grateful for the assistance. In an emergency I doubt that anyone was really checking to see who was part of the team.
If William does take this job, here is some information about the charity. I think its very noble and rewarding work
East Anglian Air Ambulance (http://www.eaaa.org.uk/)
Local officials and even the Health Minister are very much behind this
QuoteNews of the talks with the service have been welcomed by leading local figures. Waveney MP Peter Aldous said: "Prince William is a very skilled helicopter pilot and anything that raises the profile of the air ambulance and the work they do is good news."
Health minister Norman Lamb, MP for North Norfolk, said: "I would massively welcome it. It would bring enormous focus to the fantastic work of the air ambulance. It is of incredible value to our region, particularly given its rural nature and the coastline. I think this would be a brilliant thing for him to do."
Mid Norfolk MP George Freeman said: "The EAAA is a great local medical charity. With a young family and increasingly important Royal duties, this is a great way for the prince to put his pilot training to work for the good of the community in a flexible way outside full-time military service. We would be lucky to have him."
A spokesman for Prince William said: "An announcement will be made in due course."
More: Prince could become an East Anglian Air ambulance pilot - News - Norwich Advertiser (http://www.norwichadvertiser24.co.uk/news/prince_could_become_an_east_anglian_air_ambulance_pilot_1_3652536)
QuoteThe Royal Air Forces Association has welcomed Flt Lt HRH The Duke of Cambridge as a new member.
Nick Bunting, the RAF Association Secretary General, said: "Unsurprisingly the Association is thrilled to be welcoming the HRH The Duke of Cambridge as a member. The RAF Association is all about the RAF family providing friendship, help and support whenever and wherever it's needed."
The Duke of Cambridge completed seven-and-a-half years of full-time military service. His Royal Highness began his career with the Household Cavalry (Blues and Royals) and later served with the Royal Air Force, with his final posting as an RAF Search and Rescue Pilot. The Duke of Cambridge left operational service in the Armed Forces in September 2013.
More: RAF Association welcomes HRH The Duke of Cambridge as a member (http://www.rafa.org.uk/What-we-do/News/RAF-Association-welcomes-HRH-The-Duke-of-Cambridge-as-a-member)
Quote from: HistoryGirl on March 21, 2015, 03:05:54 AM
This may be a stupid question, but does anyone know where the money for fuel comes from?
As far as the London Air Ambulance is concerned its operations are partly funded through the National Health Service and that would encompass its fuel costs too, I would guess. For the rest of it the LAA relies on fundraising donations, though I should think the latest news will help a bit.
QuoteThe Duke of Cambridge Has Started Work as an Employee of Bond Air Services
The Duke of Cambridge has today started work as an employee of Bond Air Services.
Over the coming months he will undertake job-specific training before he begins piloting missions for East Anglian Air Ambulance during the summer.
The mandatory training will involve simulator, aircraft and in-flight skills training.
Press release (http://www.princeofwales.gov.uk/news-and-diary/11737/press-release)
Cindy
@gec -- yes, the process for becoming a helicopter pilot in the UK is described in this document. http://www.britishhelicopterassociation.org/sites/default/files/careers/pdf/Helicopter%20Pilot_0.pdf
In order to be an air ambulance pilot, he needed to earn a Air Transport Pilot License. To get there, you have to go through a sequential process. A Private Pilot's License has to be gained before the commercial license which must be gained before the Air Transport Pilot License. You can't just go from leaving the military to ATPL exams, though I understand from helicopter pilot message boards, the military helps with the in-flight hours for all these licenses (in-flight hours being the most expensive part of the requirements).
In April 2014, Palmer reported that William had his private pilot's licence and was training for his Commercial Pilot License. According to the document I linked to, that training involves 500 hours of theory. That's 12 full time weeks of study (i.e. 40 hours a week). He earned that in the summer (April-May-June-July). Completion of that also coincided with the official announcement of the air ambulance job (i.e., they seem not to have announced the EAAA job until he was ready to start the ATPL training). He then took August off.
After the commercial pilots license is earned, he had to do the training for the ATPL license. The theory portion of the ATPL(H) is either 650 or 750 (depending on the course) hours, or about 16-18 full time weeks. (E.g., if he'd started that theory work on September 8 and taken absolutely no time off from it, studying 8 hours a day 5 days a week, he could have started taking his exams the week of January 5, but that would have precluded the NYC trip and Christmas). They announced that he had finished them on February 26.
That's all based on publicly available sources and is set down by the regulatory body. The great unknown is the training he started in April upon returning from China, which is not based on regulatory requirements, but instead his employer. That is not public knowledge, and there's a good argument to be made that it's confidential employment information between Bond Air Services and their pilots.
Hope that was helpful.
Former RAF Valley chef reveals Prince William's favourite duty meal during his time on Anglesey - Daily Post (http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/raf-valley-chef-prince-william--9376310)
QuoteWilliam was so down to earth which I used to find unbelievable.
"I used to spot Kate a few times waiting in their car for him to finish his duties. They were just like any other young couple."
Nice to hear something good about William! :happy:
Rescue pilot Wills takes to the air again: Prince starts news job with air ambulance team (and he'll have to take a packed lunch because there's no (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-3157617/Rescue-pilot-Wills-takes-air-Prince-starts-news-job-air-ambulance-team-ll-packed-lunch-s-no-canteen.html)
Quote
It's hazardous, it involves night shifts, staff might have to work Christmas Day and they take a packed lunch because there's no canteen.
It hardly sounds like a career fit for a prince, yet at 7am tomorrow the Duke of Cambridge reports for duty at Cambridge International Airport, to start his new job as a pilot with the East Anglian Air Ambulance (EAAA).
The former RAF search-and-rescue pilot will now carry out risky missions ferrying to hospital critically ill members of the public that other emergency services cannot reach.
One of William's new colleagues, Jeremy Mauger, a doctor on the EC145 helicopter the Duke will be co-piloting, said it is a very rewarding job.
'Our crew, particularly the pilots, are fantastic and we are looking forward to working with the Duke,' said Mr Mauger a 47-year-old consultant anaesthetist at West Suffolk hospital, who has worked with the EAAA for 13 years. 'They fly in very challenging conditions and land in tight spaces, such as a sports field or busy dual carriageway.'
The Duke will be on a six-strong team on a roster of day and night shifts, which last nine and a half hours and could fall on Christmas Day.
He will have no contact with the Duchess when he is on call-outs as mobile phones must be switched off during rescue flights.
[/quote]Thank you for sharing the article. Sounds like typical first responder shift hours from the description. As for safety concerns, there will be some flights which involve landing in rural or highway spaces according to the veteran EAAA crew members. However I believe that William would have dealt with those scenarios while working with SAR.
Prince William has rescued a man who was the victim of a shooting in Bury St. Edmund's, Suffolk:
Prince William rescues shooting victim in latest air ambulance mission | Royal | News | Daily Express (http://www.express.co.uk/news/royal/596504/Prince-William-shooting-victim-air-ambulance-mission)
Prince William lands air ambulance in Saffron Walden to help man in 80s - News - Saffron Walden Reporter (http://www.saffronwaldenreporter.co.uk/news/prince_william_lands_air_ambulance_in_saffron_walden_to_help_man_in_80s_1_4323055?utm_medium=twitter&utm_source=twitterfeed)
^^^AFAIK these are team efforts when EAAA or any other first responder unit is called for assistance. EAAA copters have medical personnel on board so the pilots can do their task of transporting patients. It's an ambulance unit after all. An awaiting emergency/casualty unit would be waiting on the ground to meet the injured person and to receive information from the on board team members regarding the patient's condition.
Also the article above mentioned that the elderly man's injuries were not life-threatening, but head wounds should be checked out for a variety of reasons. :)
Double post auto-merged: November 28, 2015, 10:34:57 PM
Quote from: amabel on November 28, 2015, 08:46:31 AM
Quote from: TLLK on November 28, 2015, 03:03:09 AM
Man thanks Prince William and East Anglian Air Ambulance crew for helping grandad in Saffron Walden - News - Saffron Walden Reporter (http://www.saffronwaldenreporter.co.uk/news/man_thanks_prince_william_and_east_anglian_air_ambulance_crew_for_helping_grandad_in_saffron_walden_1_4324584)
Hopefully this link will work.
is this the old chap who fell? I can't imagine how anyone could say that this is "staged" presumably to make Wiliam look good.
Yes this the gentleman who was injured.
Prince William in mercy mission to help save a three-year-old boy choking on peanuts - Mirror Online (http://www.mirror.co.uk/news/uk-news/prince-william-mercy-mission-help-7353701?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter)
8 February: Bishop's Stortford, Hertfordshire - East Anglian Air Ambulance (http://www.eaaa.org.uk/missions/8-february-bishops-stortford-hertfordshire/)
Duke and Duchess of Cambridge visit RAF Valley, Anglesey - BBC News (http://www.bbc.com/news/uk-wales-north-west-wales-35602046)
Home - ITNSource News (http://itnsourcenews.com/?SearchTerm=PARADE%20IN%20WALES#cont)
Video from today's event.
Prince William hailed as 'part of the family' at RAF Valley as he and Kate bid farewell to search and rescue - Daily Post (http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/prince-william-hailed-part-family-10911210#ICID=sharebar_twitter)
RAF Search and Rescue Force Disbandment Parade (http://www.raf.mod.uk/news/archive/raf-search-and-rescue-force-disbandment-parade-18022016)
RAF reports state that William flew on 156 missions and assisted 149 people while stationed at Angelsey.
QuoteWilliam and Kate Royal Air Force
The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge on Thursday paid a visit to their old hometown of Anglesey in Wales. They were present at a ceremony in the Royal Air Force.
The unit of the RAF which was engaged in search and rescue operations was disbanded and Kate and William were at the ceremony.
Read more translated:
https://translate.google.nl/translate?hl=nl&sl=nl&tl=en&u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.eo.nl%2Fblauwbloed%2Fartikel-detail%2Fwilliam-en-kate-bij-royal-air-force%2F
Prince William comforts a patient on a stretcher after flying to emergency call out | Daily Mail Online (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-3505986/Wills-rescue-Prince-comforts-patient-stretcher-flying-emergency-call-travels-ambulance-hospital.html)
Considering that the patient had a pelvic/spinal injury I can understand why many hands were needed to assist in his transport.
A little information about Cambridge based photographer Geoff Robinson who has been following William's EAAA work.
GEOFF ROBINSON PRESS PHOTOGRAPHER IN THE EAST OF ENGLAND | Geoff Robinson Photography (http://www.geoffrobinsonphotography.co.uk/about/)
QuoteDuke of Cambridge goes above and beyond the call of duty
Tuesday saw the Duke of Cambridge on a mission to rescue a young man who was injured by a tree branch whilst on the job as helicopter co-pilot.
Rather than remaining aboard the aircraft, he helped transport the patient and ride with him in the ambulance to the hospital before being driven back to the helicopter to continue on to his next emergency mission.
Recently, both the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge have been criticised for being 'work-shy' by not carrying out their share of royal duties.
Read more:
Duke of Cambridge goes above and beyond the call of duty – Royal Central (http://royalcentral.co.uk/uk/cambridges/duke-of-cambridge-goes-above-and-beyond-the-call-of-duty-58380)
Tree surgeon rescued by Prince William didn't recognise him (http://us.hellomagazine.com/royalty/2016033030618/prince-william-tree-surgeon-didnt-recognise/)
QuotePrince William tells of "sad, dark moments" as air ambulance pilot
Prince William has spoken candidly about dealing with the "sad, dark moments" of his job as an air ambulance pilot. Sitting in the open side door of his aircraft with Captain James Pusey, the Prince opened up about one of the most difficult jobs he has attended since he began working with the team last summer.
"I think my most challenging one was to do with burns. There's one job in particular that was really quite nasty and I don't know how the medical crew dealt with it either, because they came to the rescue and did everything they (could) and sadly the casualty was beyond help," he said in an interview with BBC Future.
Read more:
Prince William takes part in Air Ambulance Week documentary (http://www.hellomagazine.com/royalty/2016092033586/prince-william-air-ambulance-documentary/)
@wannable -Incredible to think that there are so many job openings available for qualified pilots in the UK. No wonder that they're having to post the openings overseas in order to find people with the skills necessary to fill them.
Job Information : Careers Wales (https://www.careerswales.com/en/job-details/10316) (An example of one of those websites.)
And training is available! New helicopter deal boosts UK's investment in military flying training to £2.8 billion - News stories - GOV.UK (https://www.gov.uk/government/news/new-helicopter-deal-boosts-uks-investment-in-military-flying-training-to-28-billion)
If EAAA didn't have him working in a role that is more of less volunteer, they'd be struggling to find the donations in order to pay for a full or part- time qualified pilot.
SAR and EAAA team members are required to have some training in emergency medicine. They help to stabilize those who could have unseen internal injuries.
The Prince William effect: East Anglian Air Ambulance donations trebled after Duke of Cambridge became pilot (http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2017/01/16/prince-william-effect-east-anglian-air-ambulance-donations-trebled/)
EAAA relies upon donations in order to provide service to the area. Corporate donations have tripled when he joined though individual ones have declined by 6%.
QuoteEast Anglian Air Ambulance benefits from Prince William
The effect of having a Prince work with you has its benefits. In the case of the East Anglian Air Ambulance, where Prince William works as a pilot, it has meant a rise in donations.
What the media is calling the 'Prince William effect' shows that corporate donations have increased from £55,101 in 2015 to £163,082 in 2016.
Since the Duke of Cambridge started with the Air Ambulance in July 2015, more companies have wanted to help out the charity.
Read more:
East Anglian Air Ambulance benefits from Prince William – Royal Central (http://royalcentral.co.uk/uk/cambridges/east-anglian-air-ambulance-benefits-from-prince-william-75165)
QuotePrince William to leave East Anglia Air Ambulance in the summer
It has been announced by Kensington Palace today that Prince William will cease flying with the East Anglia Air Ambulance in the summer, this will conclude the two-year arrangement that the Prince had made. The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, together with Prince George and Princess Charlotte, will be spending more time from the autumn in their apartment in Kensington Palace. Prince George will be starting school in London in September, and no doubt Princess Charlotte will soon be starting nursery. Royal Central will, of course, cover these events.
As we have seen this year, Her Majesty The Queen has delegated some of her patronages, and the Duke and Duchess are keen to continue to increase their official work on behalf of the Queen and the charities and causes they support. Hence, they will be spending more time at Kensington Palace though there is no indication they will not be keeping their Norfolk property. Indeed, it will be advantageous to stay there when the Queen is at Sandringham or perhaps if they have a series of visits in East Anglia and can stay there overnight rather than perhaps fly out from London in the morning.
The Duke of Cambridge said "It has been a huge privilege to fly with the East Anglia Air Ambulance. Following on from my time in the military, I have had experiences in this job I will carry with me for the rest of my life, and that will add valuable perspective to my Royal work for decades to come.
Read more:
Prince William to leave East Anglia Air Ambulance in the summer – Royal Central (http://royalcentral.co.uk/uk/cambridges/prince-william-to-leave-east-anglia-air-ambulance-in-the-summer-75349)
Peter Hunt - BBC News (http://www.bbc.com/news/correspondents/peterhunt)
QuoteThis will not have been an easy decision for Prince William to make.
For a second time, he's giving up a role he didn't inherit, but gained on merit.
After stints in the RAF and the air ambulance, his days as a pilot are coming to an end.
He will miss them. He's spoken of how he's loved working in a team. Something, he said, "his other job" didn't necessarily offer.
The prince is the only senior royal to have a deep understanding of the National Health Service the majority of the population experience.
With his family moving from Norfolk to London, Prince George will go to a private school from September.
And Prince William and his wife will be available to do more royal work. The demands will increase now the Queen has turned 90.
The future king's exclusive focus will very soon be on his role as a Windsor and a destiny he'll one day embrace.
Quote from: sandy on January 22, 2017, 11:44:14 PM
William can't fly as a career. His job is a senior royal. William has titles, perks and privileges that his mates can only dream about. Sorry, he's not "just like" them no matter how much he wants to play at being normal. Charles could fly too but he gave up the work to concentrate on being a royal and work on his charities and when he was younger than William.
He did, and has been consistent with his flying. So it is a career, which apparently will end this year., and will be doing his 100% Royal duty. Perhaps the Queen feels her time is almost done, giving up the foreign travel, departing from 25 charities. Perhaps the rest of her and Philips charities will be grouped into Prince's trust and WKH foundation in order to survive the economy.
Charles is the POW, he had no choice but to give up his flying.
Quote from: wannable on January 23, 2017, 03:34:05 AM
Quote from: sandy on January 22, 2017, 11:44:14 PM
William can't fly as a career. His job is a senior royal. William has titles, perks and privileges that his mates can only dream about. Sorry, he's not "just like" them no matter how much he wants to play at being normal. Charles could fly too but he gave up the work to concentrate on being a royal and work on his charities and when he was younger than William.
He did, and has been consistent with his flying. So it is a career, which apparently will end this year., and will be doing his 100% Royal duty. Perhaps the Queen feels her time is almost done, giving up the foreign travel, departing from 25 charities. Perhaps the rest of her and Philips charities will be grouped into Prince's trust and WKH foundation in order to survive the economy.
Charles is the POW, he had no choice but to give up his flying.
For William, Charles, Andrew, Harry, Abdullah, W-A, Frederik etc...their military careers were likely some of the best years of their lives. An opportunity to learn about teamwork, reaching goals and working with your fellow citizens. Also it would be one of the times that they would have received honest feedback from someone outside of the court because if you screw it up during combat, a rescue operation or other activity you were going to hear about it from your C.O. ! :eyes:
Grouping the charities of the Queen, DoE, PoW and WKH foundation is a possibility if the next reign is going to be as streamlined as we've speculated it will be. Other royal families have created similar foundations ie: Dutch Orange Funds as their pool of working royals is automatically reduced by the constitution whenever a new reign begins.
Prince William aids victim of Kempston 'industrial incident' | Bedfordshire News (http://www.bedfordshire-news.co.uk/prince-william-aids-victim-of-kempston-industrial-incident/story-30083141-detail/story.html)
Fortunately for this man he was able to be transported quickly and safely by EAAA for further treatment. Hope that he makes a full and quick recovery.
And I will be glad that the people of that region have much needed emergency transportation when they need it.
All the more reason to train up working class lads and girls who have been forgotten in this new elitist global economy, don't you think
@TLLK? There are so many young people in the UK and commonwealth who would be delighted to have such an opportunity and would stick to it to the very end. William was just dabbling to get some experience and it annoyed some of my friends who are parents in the UK.
Yes it would be an excellent opportunity for them which is why I find the military to be a good source of training for people. Keep in mind William had a part-time position with EAAA so I'm not sure if that would be a role that others would be looking for. Also it is funded solely through donations which could be of a concern for those looking for more stable employment.
Here is a vacancy that is currently open for a similar position: for an air ambulance organization based in Wales. Job Details | Careers | Babcock (https://www.babcockinternational.com/Careers/Vacancies/details.aspx?nPostingID=21231&nPostingTargetID=66302&utm_source=Indeed&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=Indeed)
William proved himself for the position by passing and receiving his commercial pilot license. And it's a win win situation for the EAAA receiving plenty of new donors, a new hangar station, plus a brand new helicopter. All thanks to the courtesy of William.
If any of their workers, members are pist with him or the media for stating his presence, or happy he is leaving, they are in the wrong job.
Now William should campaign with a visit to his old RAF station, the MOD is seeking new students who may be interested in being RAF helicopter pilots. Usually the majority of military pilots end up going commercial during their lifetime, which does require what William did 2015 3 months of intensive theory, practice and approx 30 live tests.
I think William's contributions and being there have been overstated. They managed without him. The other workers if they found it good that he is leaving would not tell him so obviously but they are entitled to their opinions. William did not spend that much time there comparatively. I think he was playing normal and postponing full time work.
It's a fact the media attention of EAAA and all improvements are thanks to William.
They can do without is your point of contention that a charity should do without the improvements, this includes the new money donors, and the media attention it receives. Actually not convincing in the real world of money makes the world go round.
QuoteActually not convincing in the real world of money makes the world go round.
While we might not like to always consider it, your statement is true
@wannable.
The professionals who are EAAA team members were likely very aware that if there was going to be any publicity regarding their rescue operations that the name "William" or "Duke of Cambridge" would be in the headlines. The same headlines that would highlight their work and bring in those donations. Donations that have tripled in the last twelve months with corporations now increasing their contributions.
But with everything upgraded 😘
Double post auto-merged: January 29, 2017, 12:21:52 PM
Quote from: TLLK on January 29, 2017, 12:46:43 AM
QuoteActually not convincing in the real world of money makes the world go round.
While we might not like to always consider it, your statement is true @wannable.
The professionals who are EAAA team members were likely very aware that if there was going to be any publicity regarding their rescue operations that the name "William" or "Duke of Cambridge" would be in the headlines. The same headlines that would highlight their work and bring in those donations. Donations that have tripled in the last twelve months with corporations now increasing their contributions.
Exactly, with ALL the royals, wherever they are involved, the publicity is and will be based mainly on them and who, what and where they are doing.
It's only a William thing, that some are sad or mad that he was not only an active participant, but he turned a charity improving it through and through 100 percent. 😀 No one can take away, what's Cesar is Cesar's...he graduated thrice and got his military and commercial license wings. And he moved the charity from an old hangar, which they had to run the 500 meter dash to get to their copters to a brand new one with only 15 meters, the new hangar also has 100 % refurbishment that the old one did not have, plus corporate benefactors. That is why I said, if some are pist, they are in the wrong job. Charity is charity, if you are willing, you will appreciate the good things coming in.
The reality in this world...there are more charities going broke, closing doors than those who survive. So, as I said factually you need to convince me and people who know about surviving charities that this Prince did it wrong with a saving lives charity.
Prince William lands in school playing field to assist man suffering from cardiac arrest (From Basildon Standard) (http://www.basildonstandard.co.uk/news/15108786.Prince_William_lands_in_school_playing_field_to_assist_man_suffering_from_cardiac_arrest/)
Boy drowns on hottest day of the year despite efforts of air ambulance piloted by Prince William (http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2017/05/26/prince-william-flies-air-ambulance-try-save-teenager-drowned/?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter)
Awful news for the family of this young man and a sobering reminder that even proficient swimmers are susceptible to drowning accidents.
Prince William Is Leaving His Job as Air Ambulance Pilot
Prince William Is Leaving His Job as Air Ambulance Pilot (http://people.com/royals/prince-william-leaving-job-air-ambulance-pilot/)
Double post auto-merged: July 27, 2017, 03:58:05 PM
Prince William prepares for final shift as air ambulance pilot
Prince William to compete last shift as air ambulance pilot (http://us.hellomagazine.com/royalty/2017072740969/prince-william-final-shift-air-ambulance-pilot/)
Double post auto-merged: July 27, 2017, 04:10:36 PM
Prince William to pilot last East Anglian Air Ambulance shift
Prince William to pilot last East Anglian Air Ambulance shift - BBC News (http://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-cambridgeshire-40728530)
Double post auto-merged: July 27, 2017, 04:12:04 PM
Prince William tells of 'things that cannot be unseen' ahead of final air ambulance shift
Prince William tells of 'things that cannot be unseen' ahead of final air ambulance shift (http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2017/07/27/prince-william-tells-things-cannot-unseen-ahead-final-air-ambulance/)
Double post auto-merged: July 27, 2017, 04:12:45 PM
Prince Williams leaves air ambulance service which deeply influenced his mental health work
Prince Williams leaves air ambulance service which deeply influenced his mental health work (http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2017/07/26/prince-williams-leaves-air-ambulance-service-deeply-influenced/)
Double post auto-merged: July 27, 2017, 04:14:43 PM
Prince William to finish final air ambulance shift today to focus on being full time royal
Prince William begins final air ambulance pilot shift ahead of full-time royal duties | Royal | News | Express.co.uk (http://www.express.co.uk/news/royal/833411/prince-william-kate-middleton-news-duke-cambridge-air-ambulance-royal-family-latest)
Double post auto-merged: July 27, 2017, 04:16:01 PM
Prince William prepares for final pilot shift ahead of full-time royal duty
Prince William prepares for final pilot shift ahead of full-time royal duty - ITV News (http://www.itv.com/news/2017-07-27/prince-william-prepares-for-final-pilot-shift-ahead-of-full-time-royal-duty/)
Double post auto-merged: July 27, 2017, 04:16:55 PM
Prince William pens emotional letter ahead of final air ambulance shift
Prince William pens emotional letter ahead of final air ambulance shift - ITV News (http://www.itv.com/news/2017-07-27/prince-william-pens-emotional-letter-as-he-prepares-for-final-air-ambulance-shift/)
Double post auto-merged: July 28, 2017, 01:05:48 AM
Heir-borne! Prince William is spotted in a park as emergency crews treat a patient on his last shift as an air ambulance pilot after telling of horrors 'that can't be unseen' during his two years on the job
Prince William hands over after final air ambulance shift | Daily Mail Online (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-4736654/Prince-William-hands-final-air-ambulance-shift.html)
Double post auto-merged: July 28, 2017, 01:08:21 AM
Prince William embarks on final day as a helicopter pilot
Prince William embarks on final day as a helicopter pilot (http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2017/07/27/prince-william-embarks-final-day-helicopter-pilot/)
Double post auto-merged: July 28, 2017, 01:13:28 AM
Prince William starts last shift as air ambulance pilot
Duke of Cambridge starts last shift as air ambulance pilot | Royal | News | Express.co.uk (http://www.express.co.uk/news/royal/833937/prince-william-kate-middleton-news-duke-cambridge-air-ambulance-royal-family-latest)
@sandy-The British public who were polled in 2015 were more than happy to have William working as an EAAA and performing part time royal duties. Only 10% believed he should have been doing full time royal duties.
Quote24th - 25th April 2015 , YouGov polling asked the following question -
Last year Prince William began training for a new job as an air ambulance pilot. Do you think he should continue working as a pilot, or should he concentrate full time upon his Royal duties?
He should concentrate full time upon his Royal duties? 10% agreed.
He should combine his Royal duties with his job as a pilot? 76% agreed.
Don't know? 14%.
Re-reading the letter he wrote before his last shift I am reminded how his service actually helped to form some of his priorities. That service was surely an important way to understand the nitty-gritty of life outside the court.
Quote from: sandy on October 06, 2019, 09:49:33 PM
THe job was created just for him. He did not have to adhere to the shifts his mates did and he had security man with him. He's supposed to be a future King and not play Normal.
Most people in the UK were fine wit him doing the job. HIs being a pilot drew attention to the ambulance service and brought in donations and Will donated his salary to the charity.
and sicne he IS a future King and will be King some day - I can't see what the issue is. Most royals nowadays work at a normal job or do a stint in a normal job...
Quoteas I recall there was alos quite a high percentage in 2018 or 19 before Meghan got married sayng that they thought she should continue acting..
Yes YouGov UK will frequently ask specific questions for their respondents to answer just like they did in 2015 about William working for EAAA and with the announcement that Prince Harry and Ms. Meghan Markle had become engaged. They don't just rate who is the most popular member of the family.
Five charts on Brits' reaction to the Royal engagement | YouGov (https://yougov.co.uk/topics/politics/articles-reports/2017/11/29/5-charts-british-reaction-prince-harrys-engagement)
They had no choice of William working for the ambulance corp in any case. There were critical comments about his taking time to have the "normal" work.
^^^
@sandy-Of course there were critical comments, no one is immune from those on tabloid comment sections. However reliable and trusted polls such as YouGov UK are a better indication of how the British taxpayer thinks, than a tabloid comment section which allows for multiple identities and comments. :shrug:
^^^Actually
@sandy the UK and other parts of the world were facing a shortage of qualified fixed wing and helicopter pilots during the years that William was flying for EAAA. They couldn't find qualified pilots to fill full time positions so finding someone to take a part time position, would have been more difficult. :)
First UK Helicopter Pilot Degree students begin training - Pilot Career News (https://www.pilotcareernews.com/first-uk-helicopter-pilot-degree-students-begin-training/) This article from 2015 shares about the efforts to make training more affordable so these positions won't go unfilled.
QuoteCombined with the vast array of scholarships fully-funded and awarded by Helicentre Aviation annually, the option for degree students to now gain access to student finance is attracting a lot more would-be helicopter pilots to the industry. Training costs have always been the most prohibitive factor in the decision to embark on a career as a professional pilot, and alleviating some of the financial strain is a huge step for the industry, which is dealing with an increasing shortage of pilots worldwide.
This article from 2016 addressed the shortage of pilots and the concern that aviation licenses were down in the UK and Europe.
Pilot shortage looms but UK and European commercial pilot licence issues are down (http://www.fta-global.com/fta-news/pilot-shortage-looms-but-uk-and-european-commercial-pilot-licence-issues-are-down)
If William was willing to work part time as a qualified pilot and then donate his salary back to an organization that didn't receive any public funding and relied solely on donations, I doubt that EAAA was going to say "No."
It would be a dire situation if a future King has to "pitch in" during a shortage. It would be risky too a future King at risk of air accidents and he would be a target for terror groups which would endanger all in the unit.. I don't think they were that desperate that they would Had To "hire" William. The job was created for William and was unique. Generally pilots and team are not accompanied by security officers. It would be better if they could recruit people who were willing to make a career out of it. William could not. They need to concentrate on recruiting younger people. William is not that critical a part and was even a distraction with camera crews taking photo ops of him when he was there.
Quote from: TLLK on October 07, 2019, 11:03:16 PM
^^^Actually @sandy the UK and other parts of the world were facing a shortage of qualified fixed wing and helicopter pilots during the years that William was flying for EAAA. They couldn't find qualified pilots to fill full time positions so finding someone to take a part time position, would have been more difficult. :)
First UK Helicopter Pilot Degree students begin training - Pilot Career News (https://www.pilotcareernews.com/first-uk-helicopter-pilot-degree-students-begin-training/) This article from 2015 shares about the efforts to make training more affordable so these positions won't go unfilled.
This article from 2016 addressed the shortage of pilots and the concern that aviation licenses were down in the UK and Europe.
Pilot shortage looms but UK and European commercial pilot licence issues are down (http://www.fta-global.com/fta-news/pilot-shortage-looms-but-uk-and-european-commercial-pilot-licence-issues-are-down)
If William was willing to work part time as a qualified pilot and then donate his salary back to an organization that didn't receive any public funding and relied solely on donations, I doubt that EAAA was going to say "No."
:goodpost: I agree. He also learned a lot about the working world outside of the RF, school, and the military. Some have said he didn't have a real job...I disagree. You don't do that job without skill and experience. And it wasn't always easy, as many don't like the RF and he had a couple of people not the happiest to hear who was piloting the copter. And finally, I'm sure his awareness of good mental health has a lot to do with that job.
Quote from: sandy on October 08, 2019, 12:09:35 AM
It would be a dire situation if a future King has to "pitch in" during a shortage. It would be risky too a future King at risk of air accidents and he would be a target for terror groups which would endanger all in the unit.. I don't think they were that desperate that they would Had To "hire" William. The job was created for William and was unique. Generally pilots and team are not accompanied by security officers. It would be better if they could recruit people who were willing to make a career out of it. William could not. They need to concentrate on recruiting younger people. William is not that critical a part and was even a distraction with camera crews taking photo ops of him when he was there.
@sandy-More than one current monarch or prince/princess is a trained pilot who learned to fly either helicopters or fixed wing aircraft in their nation's military.
Helicopters: Jordan's King Hussein, the UK's Dukes of Cambridge and York. Fixed wing: the NL's King Willem-Alexander and Belgium's King Phillipe.
If there is a "dire situation" then at least these trained pilots could assist their nation's population.
If EAAA didn't want to hire Prince William, they didn't have to do so. :shrug:They could easily have said "no" to the plan, but they didn't and had an experienced pilot join their team, donate his salary and saw an increase in corporate donations. :happy:
Part of the reason that there is a shortage is due to the fact that it is very expensive to train men and women to have their commercial aviation licenses. Many have military experience and learn to fly fixed wing or helicopters in this setting as the governments pay for the training and the equipment. However it is a rather unique and specialized field so unless the cost can be reduced or more people choose to join the military to receive training, the shortage will continue.
Quote from: sandy on October 08, 2019, 12:09:35 AM
It would be a dire situation if a future King has to "pitch in" during a shortage. It would be risky too a future King at risk of air accidents and he would be a target for terror groups which would endanger all in the unit.. I don't think they were that desperate that they would Had To "hire" William. The job was created for William and was unique. Generally pilots and team are not accompanied by security officers. It would be better if they could recruit people who were willing to make a career out of it. William could not. They need to concentrate on recruiting younger people. William is not that critical a part and was even a distraction with camera crews taking photo ops of him when he was there.
If that's the case then
Quote from: sandy on October 08, 2019, 12:09:35 AM
It would be a dire situation if a future King has to "pitch in" during a shortage. It would be risky too a future King at risk of air accidents and he would be a target for terror groups which would endanger all in the unit.. I don't think they were that desperate that they would Had To "hire" William. The job was created for William and was unique. Generally pilots and team are not accompanied by security officers. It would be better if they could recruit people who were willing to make a career out of it. William could not. They need to concentrate on recruiting younger people. William is not that critical a part and was even a distraction with camera crews taking photo ops of him when he was there.
If it is the case that Royals should not take jobs that other people could do, then why was Harry In the army? He did not serve for long on active combat duty and his being there caused more danger to the other troops AND he was taking a job that could be done by someone else who needed the money.
Double post auto-merged: October 08, 2019, 08:05:32 AM
Quote from: TLLK on October 08, 2019, 04:31:26 AM
@sandy-More than one current monarch or prince/princess is a trained pilot who learned to fly either helicopters or fixed wing aircraft in their nation's military.
Helicopters: Jordan's King Hussein, the UK's Dukes of Cambridge and York. Fixed wing: the NL's King Willem-Alexander and Belgium's King Phillipe.
If there is a "dire situation" then at least these trained pilots could assist their nation's population.
If EAAA didn't want to hire Prince William, they didn't have to do so. :shrug:They could easily have said "no" to the plan, but they didn't and had an experienced pilot join their team, donate his salary and saw an increase in corporate donations. :happy:
P
Its seems odd to say that Princes should not be expected to or able to help out their countr's people when there is a need.. when of course the whole point of a RF is that they are intimately associated with their nation and are (In theory at least) dedicated in their live to serving their people. But is their "help" only to be confined to going to charity evetns and cutting ribbons? Why shouldn't they undertake training that gives them skills to help in a more practical way and spend a few years doing that?
William left the job, but he still holds his commercial license, as he hasn't stopped piloting.
Charles kept his pilot's licence for some years after he left the Navy as well, until he crashed his plane, in Scotland I think it was.
Not sure why this thread revived. :D But wanted to contribute the pilot license thing, since he piloted himself to a duty this year.
Quote from: Curryong on October 08, 2019, 10:03:14 AM
There was the Gulf War in 1991. He could have served there but didn't. And that's fine by me because at least he put his life on the line for 74 days in the Falklands.
I just don't see why Harry, who was twice in a war zone, had to be dragged into a conversation about his brother's part time air ambulance service. Let alone critically! And neither Andrew, Harry or Prince Philip for that matter, who was a naval officer in WW2 for six years, were serving part time while they were in the Navy and Air forces on active duty. To me it's like comparing apples to oranges.
Active military service in a theater of war is quite different from active military service, which is quite different from William's job with the air ambulance service. But that doesn't diminish what he did in that role, nor its value to others, nor its importance to his development. BTW, Phillip's contribution to the WWII effort is extremely impressive, but he never admits it to anyone. He acknowledges that there much effort by many.
william was given all the credit for the rescues by the media and there were photo ops. It may not have gone over that well with those that did the actual work and worked with the wounded. Maybe william would have been better off donating funds and set up a charity to train young people for ambulance pilot work. With funds and promotions. His duty is to support the monarchy as a future King. Not go in for "normal" jobs.
Quote from: wannable on October 08, 2019, 12:45:27 PM
William left the job, but he still holds his commercial license, as he hasn't stopped piloting.
I doubt William can just pilot a copter anytime he wants, there are security issues.
Double post auto-merged: October 08, 2019, 01:56:26 PM
Quote from: TLLK on October 08, 2019, 04:31:26 AM
@sandy-More than one current monarch or prince/princess is a trained pilot who learned to fly either helicopters or fixed wing aircraft in their nation's military.
Helicopters: Jordan's King Hussein, the UK's Dukes of Cambridge and York. Fixed wing: the NL's King Willem-Alexander and Belgium's King Phillipe.
If there is a "dire situation" then at least these trained pilots could assist their nation's population.
If EAAA didn't want to hire Prince William, they didn't have to do so. :shrug:They could easily have said "no" to the plan, but they didn't and had an experienced pilot join their team, donate his salary and saw an increase in corporate donations. :happy:
Part of the reason that there is a shortage is due to the fact that it is very expensive to train men and women to have their commercial aviation licenses. Many have military experience and learn to fly fixed wing or helicopters in this setting as the governments pay for the training and the equipment. However it is a rather unique and specialized field so unless the cost can be reduced or more people choose to join the military to receive training, the shortage will continue.
William at that time apparently got HM's support. would they say no to HM, I doubt it. The salary was small change to William and it did not really mean he sacrificed anything. He could do something more meaningful by setting up a charity/scholarship to help pay for training of future ambulance copter flyers. William all by himself can't "cure" the shortage. His signing up did not stop the shortage of pilots.
Double post auto-merged: October 08, 2019, 01:58:31 PM
Quote from: Princess Cassandra on October 08, 2019, 03:40:26 AM
:goodpost: I agree. He also learned a lot about the working world outside of the RF, school, and the military. Some have said he didn't have a real job...I disagree. You don't do that job without skill and experience. And it wasn't always easy, as many don't like the RF and he had a couple of people not the happiest to hear who was piloting the copter. And finally, I'm sure his awareness of good mental health has a lot to do with that job.
He's a future King not a copter flyer. I also read he was co-pilot and not always pilot. He needs glasses which disqualified other pilots but he still got to fly anyway because of IMO who he is. He said he missed copter flying and talked about the weigh of royal duties. I think it was more self interest than anything else. IMO.
QuoteI also read he was co-pilot and not always pilot.
When pilots are hired by a company, they begin as the co-pilot with the more senior employees being the pilot. Over time William became the pilot with the EAAA helicopters and a newer employee was the co-pilot. :nod:
QuoteHe needs glasses which disqualified other pilots but he still got to fly anyway because of IMO who he is.
There are restrictions for certain types of aircraft if you need vision correction. William's vision kept him out of military fighter jet planes because glasses shatter at certain altitudes and contacts pop out. However people who require vision correction, can still pilot fixed wing aircraft and helicopters. :nod:
QuoteWilliam can never be a career copter pilot. He can just play at being one.
AFAIK no one here has ever claimed that William was going to be a career helicopter pilot. :) However as I pointed out earlier there are reigning Kings and Princes/Princesses who have aviation training and licenses typically because they served in their nation's military and learned the skills there. William more or less volunteered his time with EAAA which has to rely upon charitable donations to serve the people of rural East Anglia by flying patients and accident victims to hospital. Since those who participated in the 2015 UK You Gov survey were overwhelmingly in favor of him working for EAAA and doing part time royal duties, why should it matter to those of us who are not citizens/taxpayers of the UK. :shrug: EAAA didnt' have to agree to take him on but they chose to do so. :thumbsup:
William can never be a career copter pilot. He can just play at being one.
Quote from: sandy on October 08, 2019, 02:23:29 PM
William can never be a career copter pilot. He can just play at being one.
He was one for years. What does it matter if he did it for 2 years or 5 years? Its not something one can do all one's life anyway.
Not that many years. Career pilots can be there for 25 years. So you want the future King to play pilot? To me it's like Marie Antoinette playing normal.
Quotewilliam was given all the credit for the rescues by the media and there were photo ops[/quot
@sandy-The press chose to give William credit but he never claimed that he was the one doing all the work. Most reasonable people can understand that this is just a way to sell papers/earn clicks. I would think that EAAA team members realized this might happen but William's presence also showcased the work that EAAA did and the corporate donations soared during the time that he served with them. :thumbsup: :happy:
Quote from: sandy on October 08, 2019, 02:29:23 PM
Not that many years. Career pilots can be there for 25 years. So you want the future King to play pilot? To me it's like Marie Antoinette playing normal.
I would rather he did something useful for a few years than cut ribbons. He's hardly Marie Antoinnette because he chose to follow a path that interested him for a few years .and most of the British Public clearly felt the same
If he does not like cutting ribbons then maybe he should give up the perks and privileges and step down. He got the copter job on his own terms and was not treated just like the others.
Quote from: amabel on October 08, 2019, 02:35:36 PM
I would rather he did something useful for a few years than cut ribbons. He's hardly Marie Antoinnette because he chose to follow a path that interested him for a few years .and most of the British Public clearly felt the same
Thank you
@amabel for your perspective as someone who lives and pays taxes in the UK!
William only worked for EAAA for a couple of years while still performing royal duties and as it has been pointed out the majority of those polled by UK You Gov were in favor of him doing so. Now he performs royal duties full time and like QEII and Prince Harry has high favorable ratings from those who are participating in the UK You Gov polls/ratings. His EAAA time, doesn't seem to have had a negative impact on how the British public view the future monarch.
Quote from: sandy on October 08, 2019, 03:00:27 PM
The heir can be quiet but can also be deeply interested in how he can make a difference as a future King. I don't see why it is beyond the realm of possibility for William to support patronages and set up his own charity. And of course attending openings of hospitals and so on is also part of the work.
He does support patronages and has set up his own charity..but he clearly prefers a more active and practical role...
@sandy-Read Prince William's page on the BRF website to learn more about his patronages/charities/Royal Foundation. :happy:
the british monarchy website - Google Search (https://www.google.com/search?client=firefox-b-d&q=the+british+monarchy+website)
His aim is to unite charities doing the same thing (at least in the UK), his latest about patronages, charities is they all compete for the moneys. Good for him, he is factually seeing the recent past, present to move forward to the future. In other words, charities closing going bankrupt.
Quote from: wannable on October 08, 2019, 03:20:38 PM
His aim is to unite charities doing the same thing (at least in the UK), his latest about patronages, charities is they all compete for the moneys. Good for him, he is factually seeing the recent past, present to move forward to the future. In other words, charities closing going bankrupt.
I think he is right. There are far too many charities out there and he was right IMO to spend a few years doing soemthing hands-on and practical instead of "opening hospitals " or contributing to the hundreds of charities.
I think that it is possible he wanted to do the Heli job with the air ambulance because of his Mother.. that he wanted to be able to take a role in rescuing people who were ill or injured.. so although he might have over all preferred to be on active combat duty in the Military he elected for this as the best job he could do. Since he was not required then for full time royal duties, I think it was a good use of his time.. in that it attracted attention and donations for the Air ambulance.. at no extra cost. Setting up more charities to add to the thousands out there would not be a good idea...
Quote from: amabel on October 09, 2019, 06:29:11 AM
I think that it is possible he wanted to do the Heli job with the air ambulance because of his Mother.. that he wanted to be able to take a role in rescuing people who were ill or injured.. so although he might have over all preferred to be on active combat duty in the Military he elected for this as the best job he could do. Since he was not required then for full time royal duties, I think it was a good use of his time.. in that it attracted attention and donations for the Air ambulance.. at no extra cost. Setting up more charities to add to the thousands out there would not be a good idea...
I hadn't thought of that, but it makes so much sense. And you can see why some of those cases hit him so hard.
I don't think his mother should be responsible for William's decision in this case. I think had she been alive she would have encouraged him to take on more royal duties and charities. William did say he liked to fly copters. He also did not actually do the medical work on the patients rescued. There was an extra cost since taxpayers pay for royal security guards. What William should have done was to establish a fund to help training for air ambulance workers. And those who could have real lifelong careers .William could merely "dabble" in it for a limited time.
Double post auto-merged: October 09, 2019, 02:58:35 PM
Quote from: amabel on October 09, 2019, 06:29:11 AM
I think that it is possible he wanted to do the Heli job with the air ambulance because of his Mother.. that he wanted to be able to take a role in rescuing people who were ill or injured.. so although he might have over all preferred to be on active combat duty in the Military he elected for this as the best job he could do. Since he was not required then for full time royal duties, I think it was a good use of his time.. in that it attracted attention and donations for the Air ambulance.. at no extra cost. Setting up more charities to add to the thousands out there would not be a good idea...
I disagree. He could have stepped up and from what I gathered of the Queen renovating KP she did expect him to work more. I think Diana would have wanted William to be prepared to be monarch and step up royal work.
Double post auto-merged: October 09, 2019, 02:59:12 PM
Quote from: TLLK on October 09, 2019, 12:12:23 AM
-This was your earlier comment when you claimed that he started out "top heavy with patronages related to sports."
@sandy-William had 15 patronages early on (2005-2010). Of those 15 patronages, only 3 were sports related. Mathematically that means that only 1/5 of his patronages were sports related leaving the other 4/5 related to: conservation, the arts, healthcare, education, etc...
If you truly believe that 1/5 is greater than 4/5 than yes I believe you have been misinformed as to what were William's early patronages. This is why I linked the BRF website with Prince William's patronages earlier. If you take the time to read it, you will discover that his patronages are a balanced mix of arts, conservation, the military, healthcare, community, and yes...sports.
William is the President of the Football Association. It is reasonable to expect that one of the royal presidents would be present at matches. :) The Princess Royal, The Duchess of Cambridge, The Duke of Kent, Prince Harry, the Duke of Kent etc...also attend matches related to their sports patronages.
Now did you confuse "patronages" with "engagements when you made your earlier statement?
As to Centrepoint, William has visited this patronage publicly and privately for fourteen years now. He averages about two public visits a year and also makes private unannounced ones. :happy: If you take the time to read the "engagements thread" for the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge you'll have the opportunity to see where @wannable, @sara8150, and I along with others take the time to post information from the Court Circular.
Wills becomes patron of Di's charity (https://www.hellomagazine.com/royalty/2005/09/14/princewilliam/)
Now it's been two years now since William left his job at EAAA and his patronages, appointments and duties have grown and will continue to grow in the future.
He was seen more at the Sports related patronages.
In reference to the YouGov poll of his time working for the RAF/SAR, EAAA, I am one who would have voted in favour of.
The British Monarchy has too many working royals as it is, time for Her Majesty to reduce it. Take out the cousins, Andrew and eventually disappear Ed/Sophie. With the Commonwealth et all, highlight the important events with the POW, Cambridge's and Sussex's. That's it.
Charles is going to be 71 next month. Camilla is 72. She has been taking time off of tours. She could retire in the next few years or cut way way back on appearances. Charles obviously does not have the capacity he had twenty years ago. People age.
I don't think the two couples can do all that work to be honest. He may have to compromise with his plan. suppose there are maternity leaves for the two duchesses. Realistically I doubt the two Princes can do it all.
I believe Charles will reduce it when HMQEII passes away. That will mean more moneys for him to distribute with the DOL/SG. And William with the DOC.
The revenue from the DOL and DOC estates is used to fund the public, private and charitable activities The charitable activities to date is increasing in Private, Surprise and Embargoed because of Operational Costs.
Still an aging couple and only 4 adults could not realistically do it all. It seems rather Utopian to me.
Depends: Charles wants to reduce, William wants to Unite Charities and Harry depends on Daddy's DOC and in the future Daddy's DOL/SG approvals.
Old video footage ( 2011 and 2013) from when William was still flying with RAF's SAR in Wales.
Prince William the Helicopter Pilot: Rarely Seen Footage - YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HTntJwJ6Rlw)
Prince William at RAF Valley - YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N6OAnfqmwLc)
He was required to spend time in military service.
@sandy-The UK did not require British men to do compulsory military service in the 21st century. Now by tradition most of the men in the BRF did pursue military training and service, but they're not required to do so. Prince Edward attempted to join the Royal Marines but dropped out and the Duke of Gloucester didn't do either. :nod:
One of William's more recent piloting trips.
Prince William marks 30th anniversary of London?s air ambulance service by flying helicopter | Watch News Videos Online (https://globalnews.ca/video/4832769/prince-william-marks-30th-anniversary-of-londons-air-ambulance-service-by-flying-helicopter)
Double post auto-merged: October 11, 2019, 04:10:28 PM
Like most heirs to the throne in Europe and the Middle East, military training and service is an expected part of the their preparation, but not all monarchs/heirs participate in it ie: Japan's monarch/heirs.
True! Only during WWI and WWII the UK government carried out the Military Service Act and the National Service Act respectively and exclusively for those two WW, meaning their voluntary military depleted so compulsory was carried out.
A third government decision which still is in force to date is the Korean War act, basically voluntary military service, their full time military service when signing up they added 2 more years.
Quote from: sandy on October 11, 2019, 03:22:45 PM
He was required to spend time in military service.
The British royal family is a unique exception to the country's tradition of volunteerism, as all male royals are required to perform military service.[citation needed](This claim needs to be verifiable) Wikipedia and other war blogs use the brackets because there is no reliable source to make such claim. This claim is based on King's and POW's would defend their country from Vikings, Saxons, historical wars by fighting with their armies. It may be that this way people think its 'required' that the Monarch and heir (or members of the line of succession have to go to war)
It is incorrect that all heirs to the British throne have had to have military training in their past, ie the Army, for the plain and simple reason that except for the Cromwellian period there were no standing armies in Britain until the Napoleonic period when Britain was in danger of being invaded and the extremely small knot of an army (based in London) began to be expanded and organised, and in fact the British people did not want armies posted everywhere, as memories of that Civil War and its cost lasted for generations.
The eldest son of King George III, who was Prince Regent for years, was never in the Army. There was only a very small British army in his youth. Charles I was never 'in the Army' until the Civil War, and he and his heir the future Charles II virtually 'learned on the job' after royalist armies were raised from the population, at the beginning of the war.
The first Prince of Wales to have any formal training in the Army whatsoever was the future Edward VII in the 1860s and that was extremely brief. His eldest son Prince Albert Victor was only in the Army for a short while and as a second choice. He and his brother were expected to go into the navy for a while in their youth and in fact the future George V did just that.The present POW, Charles, went in the Royal Navy as well. His heir, William, spent most of his military training time in the RAF.
It's true that medieval King and their heirs were expected to lead armies, but, in Britain anyway, there were no standing armies to enter or get training from at that time. Henry VIII was never in the Army. In fact there were no large standing armies, only militia, in Britain until the 18th century, and armies for overseas service were just raised as the need arose (one of the reasons Hanovarian troops were used on the British side in the American revolutionary Wars, (George III was King of Hanover) and why the East India Company found it necessary to found their own Army in India.)
Double post auto-merged: October 11, 2019, 09:08:35 PM
By the time George has finished university he may wish to do something else besides military service and IMO his father, grandfather is unlikely to stop him. There was an expectation on Charles that he would follow his father into the RN. There was no such expectation put on William (Harry always wanted to go into the Army) and if he had desperately wished to do something else then he would have been allowed, IMO. In my previous post I wrote about numerous heirs to the throne of GB, who had no military training at all or expectations put on them to do so.
I hope I'm not repeating myself, but I recall an interesting comment from Prince Phillip. He said he encouraged his younger sons to go into the military, because he felt there wasn't much else that they could do! Times have certainly changed since then. And I agree that if the younger children are called to do something different their wishes will be respected.
I have to ask though, why Edward was given such a hard time by his family (and the media) for leaving the military if this was not mandatory for royal males. William was said by the press that since he would someday be head of the Armed Forces he would need to do "stints" in each of the military branches.
Quote from: sandy on October 12, 2019, 12:18:43 AM
I have to ask though, why Edward was given such a hard time by his family (and the media) for leaving the military if this was not mandatory for royal males. William was said by the press that since he would someday be head of the Armed Forces he would need to do "stints" in each of the military branches.
It is not mandatory.... but for some time it has been tradtional for the male heir to do some military training as he is going to be Head of the Armed forces.. and William has done this. Edward did not look good because he undertook the Marines.. and then dropped out. even if he found he did not like it or it was too tough for him.. he could have finished off his training and then moved on to something else...
Double post auto-merged: October 12, 2019, 12:26:37 PM
Quote from: Princess Cassandra on October 12, 2019, 12:00:46 AM
I hope I'm not repeating myself, but I recall an interesting comment from Prince Phillip. He said he encouraged his younger sons to go into the military, because he felt there wasn't much else that they could do! Times have certainly changed since then. And I agree that if the younger children are called to do something different their wishes will be respected.
True at the time when his children were still young and looking for something to do. And Andrew clearly enjoyed the Navy and wanted to be in the military.. But that was over 30 years ago and times have changed and it is now acceptable for "non duty" royals to undertake other jobs such as in business which were thought to be too controversial for even junior royals years ago. And within reason I think that younger children of the Monarch will have freedom to do most jobs which they would enjoy rather than being pushed into the armed services or cutting ribbons...
It's quite remarkable Hannah Furness from broadsheet The Telegraph was given access to follow William, "One Day at the Duchy"
Some new things:
William has travelled to France multiple times to learn from French farming.
William school run for George (and Charlotte now) is sacred. So like a middleclass dad, he takes them to school and then
William at the KP team office sits at his desk to work; checks his box and starts replying emails, reading reports, etc.
William is since 2 years ago much much closer to Charles, they speak almost every day in a FAQ/Q&A in reference to the Duchy
William still visits the Queen regularly for their monarchy chats.
A state-of-the-art training facility has been formally named today at RAF Shawbury by the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Wigston.
The building was named in honour of The Duke of Cambridge, who completed advanced flying training at the Defence Helicopter Flying School and was awarded his aircrew flying badge in January 2010.
Chief of Air Staff names new helicopter training facility | Royal Air Force (https://www.raf.mod.uk/news/articles/chief-of-air-staff-names-new-helicopter-training-facility/)
Congratulation to the RAF for their new SOTA facilities, and to William, a first major structure (RAF Building) named after his formal title.
A first, I think so? If he does have other structures with the HRH DOC please correct me. I don't count plaque 'donations', like what William did for the EAAA; new structure, new shiny helicopters thanks to his fundraising request which was advertised everywhere and they got the moneys.
This thread is so old, but I really don't think this new article will bring up much discussion. William please make your yearly medical check up.
Serious stuff
Quote
Prince William MUST be warned: A former Sea King pilot has cancer caused by his helicopter's fumes. The RAF knew there could be a danger and fellow flyers are also sick - and one exposed for years was his colleague... our future king
A former pilot has cancer caused by helicopter's fumes. Another exposed was...our future king | Daily Mail Online (https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-9555363/A-former-pilot-cancer-caused-helicopters-fumes-exposed-future-king.html)
William's colleague is being treated for cancer and the RAF will be paying an undisclosed amount of moneys. Apparently the other members are being informed too.
All those different cancers have different causative factors and may not be related to the fumes....BUT.....William and the rest certainly need to be careful and have annual preventative care done.