Queen Elizabeth II initially desired both her grandsons, Prince Harry and Prince William, to serve in the military and go to war. However, it was ultimately decided that only Prince Harry would be sent to war, as the risk for Prince William, who is second in line to the throne, was deemed too great.
The forthcoming ITV documentary "The Real Crown: Inside the House of Windsor" features an interview with former British Army General Sir Mike Jackson, who recalls a conversation with the Queen concerning her grandsons. Jackson explained that during their audiences with the Queen, chiefs must come prepared, as she is "very wise."
Jackson disclosed that on one occasion, the Queen stated, "My grandsons have taken my shilling, therefore they must do their duty." However, the monarch eventually concluded that Prince William would not be sent to war due to the increased risk associated with his position in the line of succession. In contrast, the risk was considered "acceptable" for Prince Harry, who is currently fifth in line.
According to Mark Cann, director of the British Forces Foundation, Prince William was eager to go to war in Afghanistan, but "complex" circumstances and advice from experienced individuals prevented him from doing so. Cann acknowledged that those in the military who have not been on active duty may feel a sense of disappointment, particularly if their peers have been involved in combat operations.
Prince William completed over seven years of full-time military service, including time as a search and rescue helicopter pilot, a pilot with the East Anglian Air Ambulance, and service in the Royal Air Force and Royal Navy, as reported by People.
Prince Harry, on the other hand, served ten years in the British Armed Forces and completed two tours in Afghanistan. In his memoir, "Spare," the Duke of Sussex discussed his time in the army and his deployment, admitting to killing 25 Taliban soldiers.
Following his military service, Prince Harry founded the Invictus Games, an international multi-sport event for wounded, injured, and sick service members and veterans. In his memoir, he emphasized that his military service was "a duty, a job, and a service" to his country, and he aimed to be the best soldier possible. He also shared that remaining silent about his war experiences has been unhelpful and that he chose to share his story in the hopes of helping others.
