Prince Harry created shockwaves as he boldly claimed the prestigious Living Legends of Aviation award, originally intended for Prince William.
The ceremony took place last Friday, celebrating Harry's contributions to the aviation industry based on his experience as a pilot in the British army. Amongst renowned aviation figures like Buzz Aldrin, Jeff Bezos, Tom Cruise, Neil Armstrong, Harrison Ford, Morgan Freeman, and Elon Musk, Harry stood out. However, reports suggest the award was initially offered to William, who graciously declined, leading to Harry's recognition.
Colonel Richard Kemp criticized the legitimacy of Harry's award, characterizing it as nothing more than celebrities massaging each other's egos. He questioned the publicity-driven nature of the accolade and highlighted the exceptional feats of valor performed by military pilots in conflict zones, suggesting that Harry fell short in comparison.
Despite Harry's two tours in Afghanistan as a Forward Air Controller and Apache helicopter pilot, Colonel Kemp argued that there were many others more deserving of such recognition. He emphasized that Harry served as a gunner, not even the top-ranking individual in his own helicopter. According to the Colonel, numerous military personnel had achieved extraordinary things while serving in the British and American armed forces, surpassing Harry's contributions.
GB News host Steven Dixon echoed the sentiment, claiming that Harry's Living Legend of Aviation award seemed more a result of his royal status than his actual achievements in the field. The controversy intensified as comparisons were drawn between Harry and William's military careers, particularly their shared training as helicopter pilots at the Defense Helicopter Flying School.
In 2009, both brothers underwent training on the same base, with William aspiring to become a search and rescue pilot with the RAF, and Harry training with the Army Air Corps. Despite living together during this time, a joint interview in 2009 revealed some friendly banter between the siblings, with Harry playfully asserting his superiority as a pilot over William. The recent award controversy has reignited discussions about the recognition of military achievements and the influence of celebrity status in such honors.
