The Prince of Wales has spoken of his profound respect for the UK's elite special forces after accepting a historic new role. Prince William has become the first-ever royal patron of the Special Air Service (SAS) Regimental Association, a position he described as a 'deep sense of honour'.
A Historic Appointment for the Royal Family
This patronage marks a significant moment, as no previous member of the royal family has held this formal position with the association. The news was confirmed in a newsletter to members, with the association's chairperson expressing their 'delight' at the announcement. William steps into the role to provide royal support to the secretive regiment and its veteran community.
In his personal message to members, the Prince wrote: 'It is with a deep sense of honour and respect that I accept your invitation to become patron of the Special Air Service Regimental Association.' He went on to praise the regiment's legendary reputation, stating: 'The SAS has long stood as a symbol of courage, resilience and unwavering dedication to duty and the service of this country.'
William's Personal Ties to the SAS and Military
The Prince highlighted the vital work of the association in continuing the bonds formed in service and providing essential support to members and their families. His connection to the military is both professional and personal. Prince William completed over seven years of full-time military service after training at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst.
He was commissioned as an army officer in December 2006 and gained experience across the Royal Navy and Royal Air Force. His operational career concluded in 2013 as a search and rescue helicopter pilot based at RAF Valley in Anglesey. Furthermore, his first encounter with the SAS came as a young boy when he visited Stirling Lines, the headquarters of 22 SAS Regiment in Credenhill, Herefordshire, and he later spent time with the unit as a young officer.
A Festive Message of Support
As a senior royal, William is already affiliated with several military regiments, including his role as Royal Colonel of the Welsh Guards. His new patronage deepens those ties to the armed forces' most specialised unit. Concluding his newsletter message, he offered seasonal wishes to the SAS community: 'At this special time of year, I wish you and your families a very Merry Christmas and a peaceful New Year. May the festive season bring comfort, joy and renewed strength to all within the SAS family.'
This appointment underscores the royal family's enduring commitment to the armed forces and provides a high-profile figurehead for the association dedicated to supporting one of the world's most renowned military units.
