As Philip prepares to bow out next week, he’s still hardest-working royal
HE has proudly served as the Captain General of the Royal Marines for 64 of his 65 years as the Queen’s consort.
So it seems only fitting that Prince Philip has chosen a charity parade for the Marines as his final public engagement before he retires at the age of 96.
The Duke of Edinburgh’s attendance at the march, which will take place on August 2 outside Buckingham Palace, will mark the end of his public duties.
Philip was appointed the head of the troops on June 2, 1953, in succession from the late George VI. Prince Harry is reportedly set to replace him in the ceremonial position.
The role has included regular visits to the marines on exercise in Norway and at the headquarters of the 3 Commando Brigade.
Next week’s parade signals the end of the 1664 Global Challenge – so named after the year the naval fighting force dates back to – which raises money for the Royal Marines charity. This year it has seen marines from across the country running 16.64 miles each day for 100 days, totalling 1,664 miles.
Philip will meet representatives from the runners’ contingent, as well as veterans and cadets, before returning to the dais on the Palace forecourt to receive the 1664 Global Challenge baton. The parade will finish with a march past, a Royal Salute and three cheers for the Captain General.
News of the Duke’s final appearance comes as it was revealed he is the hardest-working royal, having carried out more official engagements this year than the Queen. Philip has spent 51 days carrying out public appearances – two more than Her Majesty.
The Duke of Cambridge has carried out 43 so far, and the Duchess of Cambridge 37.
In a statement, Buckingham Palace said: ‘The Captain General’s Parade will bring His Royal Highness’s individual programme to a conclusion, although he may choose to attend certain events, alongside The Queen, from time to time.’