The Prince of Wales said ‘it is with a deep sense of honour and respect’ as he took on key position
The Prince of Wales has expressed his admiration for the Special Air Service (SAS) after accepting the role of patron for the elite Army unit’s charity.
William has taken up the position with the SAS Regimental Association, offering Royal backing to the clandestine special forces regiment.
In a newsletter to members announcing the patronage, the association’s chair conveyed their “delight” at the news.
William stated in the newsletter: “It is with a deep sense of honour and respect that I accept your invitation to become patron of the Special Air Service Regimental Association.
“The SAS has long stood as a symbol of courage, resilience and unwavering dedication to duty and the service of this country.
“The association continues that camaraderie forged on the battlefield and provides essential support to its members and families.”
The Prince of Wales expressed his enthusiasm for collaborating with the association, which supports both active and former SAS personnel, and vowed to help ensure “the sacrifices and achievements of SAS members past and present are recognised”.
William’s connection with the SAS dates back to childhood visits to Stirling Lines, the 22 SAS Regiment’s base in Credenhill, Herefordshire, and continued during his time as a junior officer embedded with the unit.
He has kept in touch with the SAS community ever since and will deepen his involvement through this patronage.
“At this special time of year, I wish you and your families a very Merry Christmas and a peaceful New Year,” William concluded. “May the festive season bring comfort, joy and renewed strength to all within the SAS family.”
As a senior Royal, William holds affiliations with numerous military regiments across all three service branches, including his role as Royal Colonel of the Welsh Guards.
The Prince completed over seven years of military duty following his officer training at Sandhurst.
Commissioned as a British Army officer in December 2006, he also served with the Royal Navy and Royal Air Force, concluding his military career in 2013 as a search and rescue helicopter pilot at RAF Valley in Anglesey.
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