Prince William Visits Air Force Base Where He Earned His Wings with Then-Girlfriend Kate Middleton by His Side

Mar. 15, 2025

Prince Williamis revisiting his past while supporting his father,King Charles.

On Sept 12, the Prince of Wales, 42, returned to a Royal Air Force base where he earned his wings back in 2008 with his then-girlfriendKate Middletonwatching.

William represented his father at the Sovereign’s Parade at RAF College Cranwell in Lincolnshire. The appearance followed the prince’s recent trip to Wales on Sept. 10 and came shortly after Kate, 42,revealed in a personal video messagethat she had completed her chemotherapy treatment.

In her message, the Princess of Wales said her “path to healing and full recovery is long and I must continue to take each day as it comes.”

Prince William at the parade at RAF Cranwell on Sept. 12, 2024.Chris Jackson/Getty

Chris Jackson/Getty

William, who has reduced his public engagements over the past nine months due to Kate’s cancer diagnosis, has felt more confident in resuming his duties and has plans for more outings this week. He is also preparing for a trip to Cape Town, South Africa, in November for the Earthshot Prize, which he will attend without Kate.

Prince William walks with his girlfriend Kate Middleton after his graduation ceremony at RAF Cranwell on April 11, 2008 in Cranwell, England.Pool/Anwar Hussein Collection/WireImage

Upon his arrival on Sept 12, William received a Royal Salute and observed a flypast over the college. He then inspected the Guard’s front rank, presented four awards and, in a brief speech congratulating the graduates, referred to his own experience at the base.

Calling it his “great honor to be with you today, representing my father,” William added, “I am delighted to see so many family and friends here — I know their love and support will have been instrumental in getting you to this point.”

Prince William talking to one of the graduating cadets at RAF College Cranwell, on Sept. 12, 2024.Samir Hussein/WireImage

Samir Hussein/WireImage

“Whilst I didn’t graduate on this exact Parade Ground, I did graduate from flying training here so I know something about the celebrations that will come later, so I promise I’ll only take a few minutes of your time!”

Prince William at RAF College Cranwell on Sept. 12, 2024.OLI SCARFF/POOL/AFP via Getty

OLI SCARFF/POOL/AFP via Getty

Referring to the international contingent, William added, “Multi-national relationships are key to international defense, security and peace. The relationships you have formed through training will be key in allowing you to achieve success in future roles and enhancing the security of all our nations.”

“The RAF has a distinctive character, spirit and attitude, that enables you to pull together as a team to deliver air and space power, no matter the challenge or environment,” he said.

Prince William inspecting the parade at RAF College Cranwell, on Sept. 12, 2024.Samir Hussein/WireImage

William, who wore his Garter Star and his Garter Sash along with his Jubilee and Coronation medals and a Wing Commander’s uniform, added that “we live in a time of change and uncertainty, and you, as the future of the Royal Air Force, are the ones who will ensure that we are able to adapt and face future threats.”

After praising the staff for getting the new cadets to the required standard, he had a word for the loved ones present.

“To the families and friends gathered here — thank you for your encouragement and understanding to get these brilliant men and women this far, and for the empathy, compromise and dedication that will be required to give these officers every chance of success in their careers,” he said.

Prince William at the parade at RAF College Cranwell, in Lincolnshire, UK on Sept. 12, 2024.Victoria Jones/Shutterstock

Victoria Jones/Shutterstock

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The cadets underwent an intensive 24-week training program, equipping them with essential skills and knowledge for their future in the RAF.

Thereto support Prince Williamat the event wasPrincess Diana’s eldest sisterLady Sarah McCorquodale, who doesn’t live far from RAF Cranwell,Hello!reported. Though she leads a largely private life, Sarah and Diana’s other siblings, Lady Jane Fellowes and Earl Charles Spencer, have stepped out numerous times to support both Prince William and Prince Harry over the years. One such instance was the 2008 ceremony where Prince William earned his wings, which Sarah attended alongside William’s future wife Kate, as well as the futureQueen Camillaand King Charles.

source: people.com