Prince Harry's absence from the Sandhurst list seemingly led to a defiant response – the purchase of an aviation award.
The announcement that Harry would be among the four inductees at the 21st annual Living Legends of Aviation Awards in Beverly Hills on January 19th stirred a mixture of surprise and skepticism. Hosted by John Travolta, the event aims to honor individuals who have made significant contributions to aviation and aerospace.
Some, however, viewed this recognition as a strategic move in response to the perceived snub related to the Sandhurst book.
Social media erupted with speculation, suggesting that Harry and Meghan bought the award as a clapback to the Sandhurst omission. The narrative emphasized Harry's supposed inability to pass helicopter pilot exams, contrasting him with Prince William, an actual pilot, who didn't need such awards. John Travolta faced criticism for hosting an event perceived as selling awards, particularly when placing Harry alongside esteemed figures like Apollo 11 heroes Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin.
The Living Legends of Aviation Awards, dubbed the "Oscars of Aviation" by actor Morgan Freeman, faced a boycott due to the perceived sale of awards to Harry and Meghan. The qualifications that placed Harry on the list were questioned, with social media users expressing confusion and skepticism. Some Twitter users questioned the legitimacy of Harry's inclusion, with one asking about his legendary achievements and another sarcastically suggesting that every military pilot worldwide should receive a similar award based on accomplishments.
A PR article highlighting Prince Harry's military service as a helicopter pilot, his involvement in training missions across the US, UK, and Australia, combat missions in Afghanistan, and his work with the Invictus Games Foundation, was cited by the awards. However, eyebrows were raised, and social media buzzed with skepticism, as some questioned the credibility of Harry's contributions to aviation and aerospace.
Fellow inductees for the same year included Navy pilot Fred George, president and CEO of CAE Mark Parent, former Canadian Aviation Electronics, and American aviator Steve Hinton, who held a world speed record from 1979 to 1989. The inclusion of Prince Harry in this prestigious list fueled social media discussions, with many expressing disbelief and skepticism about his qualifications and contributions, further adding to the controversy surrounding the Living Legends of Aviation Awards.
