Watching and listening to news and views on Prince Harry’s visits abroad as an ambassador, but more importantly as a young man happily spreading celebration news of  his Grandmother the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee, took me back in time to 2004 when I was amongst the huge crowd as the Princes, and the Queen began their walk-about at the opening of the Diana Memorial in Hyde Park, London.  

Once the formalities were over, word got-around that they were on their way. I relished in the excitement of those around me. “They’re coming!” people in high-pitched emotional voices shouted, and all heads would turn in that direction.

I saw only a flash of the Royal Princes in the distance, but stood in quiet, silent shock, as the Queen stood before me with a brilliant, wide smile upon her happy, glowing face. Some-how the vast layers of crowds in front of me seemed to part, like the parting of the Red Sea, and there she was, Her Majesty, and her radiant smile!  It was a day to remember, where sadness and joy complemented each other.

‘Her Boys’ as Princess Diana used to call her sons were twelve and ten years old at the time, and it takes no imagination to know that  she would now be beaming with pride to see what wonderful young men they have both grown into.

Prince William and Prince Harry have served together in the Blues and Royals regiment of the Household Cavalry.  William, two years later, earned his wings by completing his pilot training at the Royal Air Force training college. Now, a married man, William’s duties at present include flying search and rescue operations in the British Falkland Island.

Harry has been stationed in Afghanistan, and now with further training under his belt is to return there as a newly qualified Apache helicopter pilot.

The British public wish the Royal Family many happy years ahead, but most of all we say a special congratulations to The Queen in this her Jubilee year.