Prince William’s recent appointment as Colonel-in-Chief of the Army Air Corps has sparked intrigue and speculation. King Charles III announced this decision, a move that raised eyebrows given Prince Harry’s previous service with the unit in Afghanistan.

Had Prince Harry not withdrawn from his royal duties, he would likely have assumed the role, which his father held for over three decades. Despite both William and Harry being trained military pilots, it was Harry who actively served in the Army Air Corps during his time in Afghanistan.

During his military service, Prince William was not engaged in active combat but served as a search and rescue pilot, later transitioning to an air ambulance pilot role.

A statement from Kensington Palace outlined the transition of the role from King Charles III to Prince William, following His Majesty’s Accession in August 2023. The announcement coincided with Harry’s visit to the UK for the 10th anniversary celebrations of the Invictus Games.

Speculation arose about a potential meeting between Harry and his father, but a spokesperson for the duke clarified that such a meeting was not scheduled due to the king’s busy agenda.

The last encounter between Harry and his father occurred in February, when Harry briefly visited the UK upon learning of King Charles’ cancer diagnosis.

Do you believe Prince Harry would have assumed the role if he had not stepped down? Share your thoughts in the comments.