With a cute smile, a bold wave and a doff of his bowler hat, The Duke of Edinburgh, Philip retired from all his public duties. He retired in a rain-drenched ceremony at the Buckingham Palace forecourt.
A very few but an excited crowd gathered around. The public was seen outside the palace railings to watch the 96-year-old Prince go through the familiar routine one last time.
There were a lot of things which were presented. A march past, rows of hundreds of burly serving Marines, veterans, and cadets for him to salute him and to have a chit-chat. Two rounds of God Save the Queen were presented.
There was a parade marking the finale of the Marines’ 1664 Challenge, a series of strength and endurance challenges raising money for charity. “Captain General” is one of Philip’s oldest duties, passed to him in June 1953 from his father-in-law King George VI.
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Prince Philip is now retired. He will no longer be carrying out any solo public engagements. Though he will still be accompanying Queen Elizabeth on occasions, and might choose to attend certain public events from time to time.
Some of the Marines said:
“The Marines had been highly privileged to have the Duke of Edinburgh, Philip as their Captain General. As always with people of such an experience, they have the ability to see the peaks and troughs of life”.
The Duke of Edinburgh, Philip had clearly enjoyed the military side to his job. He had also been Admiral of the Fleet and Colonel of the Grenadier Guards.
Also Read: Prince Philip makes ‘Final Appearance’ at awards ceremony in his name.
Well, this was always particularly evident when you saw him with cadets and veterans. There was a sparkle in his eyes and the spring in his step as he spoke to them.
Don’t forget to check out Prince Philip’s farewell pictures.
