The Prince of Wales has marked a week of military-themed engagements, paying tribute to both individual heroism and collective service.
Prince William praised former Royal Marine Dave “Dinger” Bell for an epic solo rowing expedition across two oceans in aid of a PTSD charity, while also hosting a celebratory gala at Windsor Castle for the Royal Navy Submarine Service’s 125th anniversary.
The two engagements showed the Prince’s continued focus on honouring those who serve and have served in Britain’s armed forces, recognising both the personal sacrifices of veterans and the enduring importance of the nation’s submarine capability.
Mr Bell, a former Royal Marine from Bere Regis in Dorset, spent 327 days rowing solo and unsupported across the Pacific and Indian Oceans, never once stepping onto dry land throughout the gruelling journey.
The Prince of Wales has marked a week of military-themed engagements, paying tribute to both individual heroism and collective service
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His feat was undertaken to raise money and public awareness for Rock2Recovery, which provides support to veterans and emergency service workers suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder.
William took to social media to commend the achievement, writing: “An extraordinary achievement. Huge congratulations to Dinger for completing this incredible challenge in support of a brilliant cause @rock2recoveryuk. Well done! W”.
On Wednesday, William attended a gala dinner at Windsor Castle in his role as Commodore-in-Chief of the Submarine Service, gathering serving and retired submariners to mark 125 years of the Silent Service.
Prince William praised former Royal Marine Dave ‘Dinger’ Bell for an epic solo rowing expedition across two oceans in aid of a PTSD charity
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INSTAGRAM/@PRINCEANDPRINCESSOFWALES
During the evening, the Prince spoke about the extraordinary demands placed on those who operate beneath the waves, highlighting the deep trust required between crew members and the considerable sacrifices borne by submariners and their families, including prolonged absences and severely restricted communication with loved ones.
He later posted on social media: “For 125 years, submariners have operated in some of the most challenging environments, demonstrating professionalism, resilience and quiet dedication in service to their country.”
The Windsor Castle dinner built on William’s growing engagement with the submarine community earlier this year.
During the evening, the Prince spoke about the extraordinary demands placed on those who operate beneath the waves
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INSTAGRAM/@PRINCEANDPRINCESSOFWALES
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The Windsor Castle dinner built on William’s growing engagement with the submarine community earlier this year
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INSTAGRAM/@PRINCEANDPRINCESSOFWALES
In June, the Prince visited HM Naval Base Clyde, where he was given a tour of a Vanguard-class submarine and spent time with submariners and their families, learning first-hand about the realities of life in the service.
Writing about the anniversary celebration, he added: “As Commodore-in-Chief, it was an honour to celebrate those who have supported the Service through history, and recognise the vital role submariners play in the defence of the United Kingdom.”