Why Prince William and other royals wear military uniforms

SOME royals family are often seen wearing military uniforms to events.

You're sure to see some royals with their uniforms at the 2024 Trooping the Colour.

What uniform does Prince William wear?

Prince William served seven years in the military, with more than three years as a search and rescue pilot.

He left the Royal Air Force (RAF) in 2013 as a rescue pilot to focus on charity interests.

The uniform he wears is a nod to the branches of the armed forces in which he served.

For example, he wore the RAF No 1 uniform with the Garter Sash with RAF Pilot Wings and the Garter Star Chest Order for the late Queen Elizabeth II's funeral.

He also wore the Gold, Diamond and Platinum Jubilee Medals. 

What are the yellow cords on Prince William's uniform?

As William is an Aide-de-Camp to the late Queen, his shoulder strap bears the Queen's cypher.

This is also the reason why he wears the golden braids - better known as an aiguillette - across his right shoulder.

Queen Victoria was the first to institute the appointment of a small group of personal aides-de-camp (ADC), with one of the earliest holders being Prince Louis of Battenberg.

William became aide-de-camp to the late Queen on March 17, 2013.

His father, King Charles, was made personal aide-de-camp by the late Queen's father, King George VI.

Why does Prince William wear a green sash?

Prince William wears a green sash which is the Order of the Thistle.

The Order of the Thistle is the greatest order of chivalry in Scotland.

It recognises men and women who have held public office or who have contributed in a particular way to national life.

Why does Prince William wear military uniform?

In comparison to his brother, Prince Harry, William has not served on the front line as he chose a career as a pilot but he is still able to wear his uniform.

He served a total of seven and a half years in military service.

He began as an officer in the Blues and Royals Regiment before becoming a pilot, training at the Royal Air Force College.

He became a full time pilot with the Search and Rescue Force after becoming a qualified pilot.

As he is heir to the throne, William was required to carry out more royal duties and officially left his position in 2017.

Why do royal family members wear military uniforms?

Members of the Royal Family who are granted titles and duties on behalf of the crown are permitted to wear their military uniforms during ceremonial events.

Most royals who wear their uniforms have earned military ranks.

However, Princess Anne is one member who is still able to wear a uniform despite not serving.

She didn’t serve in the military, but she can wear military trousers because she is an honorary rear admiral.

How do royal family members rank in the military?

Many members of the royal family have had long careers in the military.

Prince Andrew retired from active service in 2001 after serving as an officer in the royal navy for over 20 years, earning the title of commander in the process.

King Charles served as an air vice marshal in the royal air force and rear admiral in the navy, retiring in 1976 after seven years of active service.

Prince Edward spent three years in the Royal Marines as a University Cadet.

He then left the armed forces after graduation to pursue a career in theatre production.

When did Prince William and Harry serve?

Prince Harry joined the army in 2005.

He spent 10 years in the British military, including two tours of duty in Afghanistan.

He rose to the rank of Captain before leaving in 2015.

Meanwhile, Prince William joined the military in 2005 before leaving in 2013.

He then worked as an air ambulance pilot from July 2015 to July 2017.