Prince Harry confirms he is leaving Armed Forces after 10 years

PRINCE Harry has confirmed that he is leaving the Armed Forces after 10 years, saying that he is “at a crossroads” in his military career.

The apache pilot, 30 – who served in Afghanistan twice – will spend four weeks in the Australian Defence Force and then tour New Zealand before completing his services in June, according to Kensington Palace.

After a decade in the forces, the Prince plans to focus on voluntary conservation work in Africa.

In spite of his decision to leave, Harry spoke fondly about his experiences. “It’s very easy to forget who I am when I’m in the army,” he said.

“Everyone is wearing the same uniform and doing the same kind of thing. I get on well with the lads and I enjoy my job, it really is as simple as that.”

“Inevitably most good things come to an end and I am at a crossroads in my military career.

“Luckily for me, I will continue to wear the uniform and mix with fellow serviceman and women for the rest of my life, helping where I can, and making sure the next few Invictus Games are as amazing as the last.”

He added that while he was “finishing one part of my life, I am getting straight into a new chapter. I am really looking forward to it”.

The Prince – who took up a staff officer role with the Army last year – said that he considers himself “incredibly lucky” to have had the chance to do some very challenging jobs and to have met many “fantastic people” in the process.

He continued: “From learning the hard way to stay onside with my Colour Sergeant at Sandhurst, to the incredible people I served with during two tours in Afghanistan, the experiences I have had over the last 10 years will stay with me for the rest of my life.

“For that I will always be hugely grateful.”

OK Magazine