Prince Harry’s recent induction into the “Living Legends of Aviation” cohort has ignited debate over whether his career as an Apache helicopter co-pilot in the British Army warrants such an honor.
While Harry served with distinction during two tours of duty in Afghanistan, some former senior military figures argue there are many more deserving recipients of the “legend” status.
We’ll review Harry’s military service history, veterans’ reaction to his latest award, and his helicopter training alongside Prince William.
Prince Harry’s military career as an Apache helicopter pilot
Harry undertook intensive training in 2009 to become an Apache helicopter co-pilot, studying at the same British base as William during his helicopter training with the RAF.
That year, in a rare joint interview, the siblings talked about their experiences during their courses.
William revealed his frustration at having Harry as a housemate and Harry telling reporters that he was a “better” pilot than his brother.
In retrospect, Harry talked about that interview in his memoir, reflecting that there may have been early signs of resentment beneath the surface.
Upon completion of his training, Harry was deployed to Camp Bastion in Afghanistan in 2012 where he served for 20 weeks as a co-pilot and gunner.
Harry flew missions providing air support to allied ground forces and revealed in his memoir Spare that he killed 25 Taliban insurgents. His frontline experience made global headlines.
While Harry’s army career has earned him respect from many, his induction as one of four 2024 “Living Legends” by the U.S. aviation organization has been labeled “pathetic” by senior British ex-military figures.
They argue Harry’s brief helicopter pilot stint does not warrant “Legend status” and believe publicity rather than merit prompted the decision.
As the criteria include “pilots who have become celebrities”, Harry’s fame ticks that box.
But with no record of extraordinary accomplishments in aviation, his induction has been ridiculed by veterans who say it devalues the recognition.
The Prince will now be involved in selecting future award winners, further fueling accusations the move was publicity-motivated.
To some, Harry’s record as an Apache co-pilot does not measure up to the remarkable aviation accomplishments one would expect from a “Living Legend” in the field.
The criticism raises valid questions about whether Harry’s actual profile again overshadows his actual merits.