The Duke of Cambridge warned officer cadets about the “great demands” service life places on families as he represented the Queen for the first time at the Sovereign’s Parade at the Royal Military Academy in Sandhurst.
William, who graduated from Sandhurst in 2006, also spoke of the “immense privilege” that came with serving in one of “the finest military academies in the world” as he addressed the cadets as they celebrated the completion of a year’s intensive training.
The duke joined 169 officer cadets from the UK on the parade ground in Camberley, Surrey, on Friday, along with 25 cadets from 19 overseas countries.
The duke, who wore his Blues and Royals coat, also presented a series of awards including the Sword of Honour and the Queen’s Medal.
During his seven-and-a-half years in the military, William served in the Royal Navy, British Army and RAF.
It was during Harry’s visit to Sandhurst that Kensington Palace announced the date and location of his wedding with Meghan Markle.