Watch Prince Philip Reflect on His Military Service in the Royal Family’s Recently Shared Video
In the wake of Prince Philip’s death, many members of the royal family have released statements paying tribute to the late Duke of Edinburgh. Often alongside these remembrances come photographs and videos, reflecting on the Prince’s 99 years. One particular video, recently shared on the royal family’s social media accounts, focuses specifically on Prince Philip’s military service. The short clip features historical footage, combined with an interview with the Prince himself.
During World War II, the Duke of Edinburgh served in the Royal Navy, becoming one of their youngest first lieutenants. Notably, the Prince was stationed in Tokyo Bay as the Japanese surrendered on September 2, 1945.
Following training @DartmouthBRNC, The Duke of Edinburgh went on to become one of the @RoyalNavy’s youngest first lieutenants, and saw active service in WWII. His Royal Highness was present in Tokyo Bay when the Japanese signed the surrender on 2 September 1945. pic.twitter.com/9cdtkvVamz
— The Royal Family (@RoyalFamily) April 12, 2021
“Being in Tokyo Bay with the surrender ceremony taking place in a battleship which was, what, 200 yards away and you could see what was going on with a pair of binoculars," Prince Philip said. "It was a great relief."
In the clip, the Duke of Edinburgh also discussed retrieving a number of prisoners of war, captured by the Japanese. Once they arrived on the ship, Prince Philip and his fellow soldiers joined the liberated prisoners in the boat's mess hall for tea.
"It was an extraordinary sensation because they just sat there and both sides, our own and them, just tears pouring down their cheeks. They just drank their tea—they really couldn't speak. It was the most extraordinary sensation," the Prince remembered.
These reflections are particularly powerful, as the Prince's veteran status will play a role at his funeral. According to Buckingham Palace, the Prince's naval cap and sword will lay on his coffin, alongside the flag of his personal royal standard and a wreath of flowers. The funeral will take place on Saturday, April 17 at Windsor Castle.
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