The Prince and Princess of Wales, William and his wife Kate Middleton, took a few minutes to address the nation in an emotional statement.
Princess Kate, who has kept a low profile since announcing her cancer diagnosis in March, reappeared on social media alongside her husband to share her shock and grief over a recent tragic event that has shocked the English people.
In these difficult times, the royal couple has shown their strength and commitment to the country, joining their voices in solidarity with those affected by the tragedy.
Statement from Prince William and Kate Middleton
Prince William and Kate Middleton have expressed their deep sorrow at the death of Squadron Leader Mark Long, a Royal Air Force (RAF) pilot, in an official statement.
The tragic event occurred near RAF Coningsby when a World War II Spitfire aircraft belonging to the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight (BBMF) crashed to earth last Saturday, May 25.
The news, confirmed by the RAF and reported by the Associated Press and the BBC, has shocked the aviation community and the general public.
In their message, shared via the X platform (formerly known as Twitter), William and Kate expressed their sadness.
“Incredibly sad to hear of the news this afternoon from RAF Coningsby. Our thoughts this evening are with the pilot’s loved ones, the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, and the wider RAF family,” Princess Kate and Prince William wrote, signing the message “W & C” (William and Catherine).
The signing “W & C” (William and Catherine) on the statement indicates that it was personally written by them, which is interpreted as a significant gesture and a sign of their commitment to the RAF community, especially at a time when the princess has kept a low profile due to her health.
The relationship of the Prince and Princess of Wales with aviation is well known and has strengthened over the years.
In August 2023, Prince William was appointed Honorary Royal Air Commodore at RAF Valley, while Princess Kate received the same honor at RAF Coningsby.
These appointments reflect their association with the RAF, which began when Prince William was appointed Honorary Air Commander at RAF Coningsby by the late Queen Elizabeth II in 2008, a title Princess Kate assumed last year.
This tie to aviation is not only ceremonial, but also reflects the respect and admiration they both have for those who serve in the armed forces and their families.
Incredibly sad to hear of the news this afternoon from RAF Coningsby. Our thoughts this evening are with the pilot’s loved ones, the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, and the wider RAF family. W & C
— The Prince and Princess of Wales (@KensingtonRoyal) May 25, 2024