Landmark royal events are a sight to behold, steeped in tradition and grandeur.
Members of the royal family step out in their finest military attire, adorned with an impressive array of medals that never fail to captivate audiences around the globe.
These shiny accolades, however, hold more than just decorative value.
They symbolize a rich tapestry of service, heritage, and honor that define each royal’s unique military journey.
At these momentous occasions, each royal dons a specific set of medals that tell a story of their individual military history, received honors, and participation in national celebrations such as coronations and jubilees.
While one might assume that the weight of medals correlates with the royal’s status, the reality is far more intriguing and shatters common misconceptions.
Let’s delve into the details, courtesy of the UK’s Express, to equip you with fascinating insights for your next social gathering.
**King Charles: 13 Medals**
King Charles, a prominent figure within the royal family, boasts an impressive collection of 13 medals.
His military journey commenced during his naval career, following in the footsteps of his father, grandfather, and great-grandfathers.
Despite serving actively from 1971 to 1976, his ties to the military have remained steadfast.
In 2012, Queen Elizabeth II bestowed upon him the highest ranks in the UK military, elevating him to Field Marshal, Admiral of the Fleet, and Marshal of the Royal Air Force.
**Queen Camilla: 3 Medals**
In contrast, Queen Camilla displays a modest count of 3 medals, reflective of her non-military background.
Despite this, her role as a working royal has garnered recognition.
Her recent appointment as Grand Master of the Order of the British Empire added a prestigious medal to her collection, aligning her with esteemed figures like Prince Philip and King George VI.
**Prince William: 5 Medals**
Prince William, the Prince of Wales, trained as an ARAF pilot like his father but showcases only 5 medals.
These decorations honor his royal duties and recent accolades, such as his title as Great Master of the Order of the Bath, a historic honor dating back to the 1700s recognizing exceptional service.
**Princess Catherine: 7 Medals**
Princess Catherine, despite her commoner origins, shines with 7 medals, surpassing her husband.
Her assortment includes Jubilee ribbons and distinguished medals like the Royal Victorian Order, established by Queen Victoria in 1896 to acknowledge exceptional personal service to the monarch.
Recently, she received the Companion of Honor for her contributions to the arts, sciences, and public service.
**Prince Harry: 5 Medals**
Prince Harry stands out with 5 medals, including one for combat service earned during his tours in Afghanistan in 2007 and 2008.
Concluding his army service in 2015 as a captain, he continues to make his mark within the royal family.
**Princess Anne: 12 Medals**
Princess Anne, renowned for her unwavering dedication to royal engagements, boasts an impressive 12 medals, solidifying her position as one of the most decorated royals during significant events.
Her extensive collection includes prestigious military ranks received by 2020.
**Prince Andrew: 10 Medals**
Despite controversies, Prince Andrew proudly displays 10 medals, including the South Atlantic Campaign Medal for his role as a helicopter pilot during the Falklands War of 1982.
His collection also features honors like the Naval Long Service and Good Conduct Medal.
**Prince Edward: 9 Medals**
Prince Edward, Duke of Edinburgh, showcases 9 medals, underscoring his commitment to royal duties.
His military background as a Royal Marines University cadet paved the way for his subsequent roles and honors within the royal family.
**Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh: 5 Medals**
The Duchess of Edinburgh, without military service, possesses 5 medals commemorating Queen Elizabeth II’s Jubilees and her membership in the Royal Family Order.
Her dedication to royal duties is evident in her modest yet meaningful collection.
**Prince Edward, Duke of Kent: 14 Medals**
At 88 years old, the Duke of Kent surprises many with his extensive collection of 14 medals, showcasing a remarkable military career that spans commanding a United Nations Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus to representing the Queen in various Commonwealth Independence celebrations.
His honorary ranks of Major General and Field Marshal underscore his lifelong commitment to service and duty.
As the spotlight shines on the royal family’s dazzling array of medals, it is the Duke of Kent who emerges as a beacon of military valor and dedication, boasting a chest full of decorations that symbolize a lifetime of service.
Each medal tells a story of sacrifice, honor, and unwavering commitment, painting a vivid portrait of the royal family’s enduring legacy.
