A guide to the wings and medals worn by the Dukes during the fly-past

The Dukes of Cambridge and Sussex both have the honorary rank of Squadron Leader which will rise at set periods as though they were still serving in the RAF.

Wings

1. The wings they both wear on their left breasts signify they are qualified military (helicopter) pilots. The Duke of Cambridge has RAF Wings while the Duke of Sussex wears Army Air Corps Wings.

Medals Both are wearing

2. HM The Queen’s Golden Jubilee Medal 2002 (red, blue, white, red) The Golden Jubilee Medal was awarded to personnel to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Queen Elizabeth II’S accession. Recipients must have been in effective service on Feb 6 2002, completed a minimum of five years reckonable service and have enlisted on or before Feb 7 1997, serving with the regular, reserve or cadet forces.

3. HM The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal 2012 (maroon, white, maroon). Recipients must have been in effective service on Feb 6 2012, have completed a minimum of five years’ reckonable service, have enlisted on or before Feb 7 2007 and have served with the regular, reserve or cadet forces.

Duke of Sussex only

4. Operational Service Medal for Afghanistan (yellow, blue, black, red – representing the landscape of Afghanistan and the three services). The Operational Service Medal for Afghanistan is awarded to personnel who complete operational service on or in support of, operations in Afghanistan from Sept 11 2001.

5. The Duke of Sussex is wearing the Knight Commander of the Royal Victorian Order (around his neck).

Duke of Cambridge only

6. The Order of the Garter on his left breast pocket (which also entitles him to wear the blue sash).

7. The lanyards (spaghetti) signify Prince William is an ADC – aide de camp (or assistant) – to the Queen.