Prince William is set to take on an important role as patron of an SAS charity caring for elite soldiers, veterans and their families following years of involvement with the armed forces
Prince William has been announced as the new patron of an SAS charity after years of dedication to the armed forces.
The future King will take up the role with the Special Air Service Regimental Association (SASRA), which operates as the charitable arm of the UK’s elite special forces unit.
In his new capacity, the Prince of Wales will act as the primary figurehead for the organisation.
William joined the Royal Military Academy in Sandhurst upon graduating from university in 2005, and completed a 44-week course as an Officer Cadet before becoming a British Army officer in December 2006.
He went on to join the Household Cavalry (Blues and Royals) as a second lieutenant, commanding a troop of four Scimitar light tanks, and was promoted to lieutenant a year later.
In 2008, the Prince undertook attachments to the Royal Air Force and the Royal Navy, completed significant attachments with the Royal Air Force (RAF) and the Royal Navy, teaching him flying skills that he later used as a search and rescue pilot and air ambulance volunteer. He currently holds a number of official military titles, including Colonel-in-Chief of the Army Air Corps (AAC) and Colonel of the Welsh Guards.
William’s new role with SASRA is centred on supporting the Association’s welfare mandate, including raising essential funds, and providing support for serving personnel, veterans, and their dependants. The appointment – hailed as a “proud achievement” for the 43-year-old – will mean the regiment has senior royal backing to assist with the long-term care of its soldiers and their families.
