Prince William returns to RAF Valley for major celebration
The Prince of Wales was previously based at RAF Valley during his career in the RAF.
Prince William arrived at RAF Valley (Image: Getty)
Prince William looked right at home as he arrived at RAF Valley on the Isle of Anglesey in North Wales today to celebrate its 85th anniversary. The Prince of Wales previously spent three years stationed at the base while serving as an RAF search and rescue pilot between 2010 and 2013.
In his role as Royal Honorary Air Commodore, RAF Valley, Prince William arrived at the base to inspect the 85th Anniversary Parade, as well as to present The Prince of Wales Award.
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The RAF Valley is the RAF’s only station in Wales and is home to the No 4 Flying Training School (4FTS), for the UK’s next generation of fighter pilots. Crews at the base are also trained for mountain and maritime operations worldwide.
Prince William was previously stationed at RAF Valley (Image: Getty)
Prince William is the Royal Honorary Air Commodore of RAF Valley (Image: PA)
Dressed in army fatigues, Prince William, whose last visit to RAF Valley came in 2024, arrived at the base to inspect the 85th Anniversary Parade. He then presented the Prince of Wales Award, which recognises the best Qualified Flying Instructor within the No. 4 Flying Training School.
After this, the Prince met with a group of the RAF’s female team, continuing his ongoing interest in the experiences and welfare of women in the Armed Forces. He then met the 202 Squadron, who provide mountain, maritime and SAR training to helicopter aircrew with the Airbus Helicopters Jupiter.
Rounding off the engagement, William had the opportunity to meet trainees from across RAF Valley.
The Prince and the Princess of Wales lived together on the Isle of Anglesey before their wedding and later as newlyweds when he served as an RAF search and rescue pilot at the base between 2010 and 2013.
Prince William inspected the parade (Image: PA)
Prince William was stationed at RAF Valley (Image: Getty)
Speaking at the time of his and Kate’s experience on Anglesey, Prince William said: “This island has been our first home together, and it will always be an immensely special place for us both.
“Catherine and I look forward to returning again and again over the coming years with our family.”
“I know that I speak for Catherine when I say that I have never in my life known somewhere as beautiful and as welcoming as Anglesey.”
During his time in Anglesey, William took part in numerous and often dangerous rescue attempts as well as a six-week deployment to the Falkland Islands.
