Philip had a distinguished career in the British Navy, serving during World War II and rising to the rank of commander. In 1952, he retired from the Navy to support his wife in her duties as Queen. Over the years, Philip was involved in many philanthropic and charitable causes, including the World Wildlife Fund and the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, which encourages young people to challenge themselves and develop their skills.
Throughout his life, Philip was known for his sense of humor and his candor. He had a tendency to speak his mind, which sometimes landed him in hot water. However, he was respected for his honesty and his dedication to his duties. Philip was also an avid sports fan, particularly of polo, sailing, and cricket.
In recent years, Philip’s health had been declining. In 2011, he underwent a successful heart procedure, and in 2017, he retired from public life. In February 2021, he was admitted to hospital for a non-Covid-related infection, and in March of that year, he underwent a successful heart surgery. However, on April 9, 2021, it was announced that Philip had passed away at the age of 99.
The death of the Duke of Edinburgh was met with an outpouring of grief and tributes from around the world. Buckingham Palace released a statement saying, « It is with deep sorrow that Her Majesty The Queen announces the death of her beloved husband, His Royal Highness The Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh. His Royal Highness passed away peacefully this morning at Windsor Castle. » The statement went on to say that further announcements would be made in due course.
Flags were flown at half-mast across the United Kingdom, and the BBC suspended all programming to broadcast news of Philip’s death. Leaders from around the world, including Queen Elizabeth II, Prime Minister Boris Johnson, and President Joe Biden, paid tribute to the Duke of Edinburgh, praising his humor, his dedication to his country, and his loyalty to his wife and family.
The funeral of the Duke of Edinburgh took place on April 17, 2021, at St. George’s Chapel in Windsor Castle. Due to Covid-19 restrictions, the funeral was limited to 30 guests, but it was televised around the world. Prince Philip was laid to rest in the Royal Vault at Windsor Castle, where he will remain until his wife’s death, when he will be interred with her in the King George VI Memorial Chapel.
In conclusion, Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, had a distinguished career in the British Navy and in philanthropic causes. He was known for his humor, his candor, and his dedication to his duties. His passing was mourned by people around the world, and he will be missed by all those who knew him.