Prince William paid a nostalgic visit to the Royal Air Force (RAF) College in Cranwell, England on Thursday, Sept. 12, returning to the place where he earned his wings in 2008.
The Prince of Wales — who was still sporting his fan-favorite facial hair — attended the Sovereign's Parade on behalf of his father, King Charles, watching on as RAF cadets and international officer cadets graduated at the Air Force station.
Princess Diana's sister, Lady Sarah McCorquodale, who lives close to RAF Cranwell, also attended the parade.
Prince William attended the Sovereign's Parade on behalf of his father, King Charles III.
RAF Cranwell holds a special place in royal history as it was the place where a young Kate Middleton made her first public appearance with her then-boyfriend following their breakup.
Middleton attended Prince William's 2008 graduation alongside members of the Royal Family, stepping out in a white coat and black tights as she beamed alongside her boyfriend.
Prince William followed in his father's footsteps by attending RAF Cranwell; The King took flying training courses at the Air Force Base in the 1970s.
Royal fans took to X to share their thoughts on William's latest appearance, with one writing, in part, "Seems like the beard is here to stay. Perhaps to mark a new phase after overcoming the ordeal of Princess Catherine's health troubles."
Kate Middleton attended Prince William's 2008 RAF Cranwell graduation.
Another royal watcher shared a photo of the Prince of Wales from his RAF Cranwell graduation along with one from Thursday's engagement, writing, there was "defintely a gravity there that comes naturally with age."
His appearance Thursday follows the emotional video the Prince and Princess of Wales shared to update the public on the princess's cancer battle earlier this week.
In the moving clip, the Princess of Wales announced she has completed her chemotherapy treatment and is "looking forward to being back at work and undertaking a few more public engagements in the coming months."
However, she added that her "path to healing and full recovery is long."
-
Why King Charles's Cousin Immediately Name-Dropped Prince Harry and Meghan Markle on 'The Traitors'Lord Ivar Mountbatten quickly established his connection to the Sussexes, and discussed his status as the first openly gay British royal.
-
Suki Waterhouse Cements Her '70s Darling Status in the Yeti Coat TrendThe British pop-rock princess truly met her match in this shaggy vintage-inspired style.
-
These Royals Could Step Up to Help Prince William When He's King "If He Calls on Them"Three members of the Royal Family are likely to pitch in with duties down the line.
-
These Royals Could Step Up to Help Prince William When He's King "If He Calls on Them"
Three members of the Royal Family are likely to pitch in with duties down the line.
-
Kate Middleton Reportedly Acts as the “Glue” When Prince William and King Charles Don’t See Eye-to-Eye"She is solution-focused and is certainly the glue between Prince William and King Charles III."
-
What Prince William’s Birthday Tribute to Kate Middleton Reveals About How Her Cancer Diagnosis Has Affected Their RelationshipA royal expert unpacked the meaning behind the "'heartfelt" post.
-
Queen Elizabeth's Final Birthday Gift to Kate Middleton Was a Precious Heirloom With Specific Rules AttachedThe present, which was from the Queen's private collection, "brought tears to Kate's eyes."
-
How Princess Kate Broke Tradition with Her Stunning 43rd Birthday PhotoThe Princess of Wales posed for a black-and-white pic by one of her favorite photogs.
-
Prince William Is the "Ultimate Nepo Baby," According to Spice Girl Mel B's Daughter Phoenix"There's been rising anger in recent years—almost to the point of obsession on social media."
-
Prince William Views This Royal Family Member as a "Brother" and Someone He Can "Always Rely On""There's no doubt Wills sees him as the brother he lost."
-
Why the Royal Family's Annual Income Is Increasing by $56 Million in 2025The royals will receive a whopping $165 million, which critics have called "scandalous."
