Duke of Edinburgh is to formally retire next week after 65 years of public service with Royal Marines salute

PRINCE Philip will formally retire next week with a salute to the Royal Marines.

The Duke of Edinburgh will end 65 years of public service attending a parade by the commandos at Buckingham Palace on August 2.

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Since 1952 he has attended 22,219 solo engagements and 637 overseas tours in a career marked by his famous gaffes.

Philip, 96, announced he was standing down in typically dry fashion in May, joking: “Well, I can’t stand up much longer.”

Next Wednesday he will meet hero commandos who have run 1,664 miles over the past 100 days to raise money for The Royal Marines Charity.

They have been doing 16.64miles a day in tribute to the year the Navy’s elite infantry force was founded.

The Duke is the Captain General of the Royal Marines, a position he has held since 1953.

A Buckingham Palace spokeswoman said: “The parade will bring His Royal Highness’s individual programme to a conclusion, although he may choose to attend certain events alongside The Queen from time to time.

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“The parade will conclude with a march-past, a royal salute and three cheers for the Captain General.”

The Duke will also meet veterans and cadets.

With his retirement, Prince Charles, 68, and Prince William, 35, will be by the Queen’s side at public events.

She has promised to serve for her “whole life whether it be long or short”.