Widow 6-7 Gets His Wings

Widow 6-7 - yes, the real one - has earned his wings from the British Army.

Harry and eight other training pilots were awarded their provisional wings by the Prince of Wales, who is the Army Air Corps Colonel in Chief.

Just before the ceremony it emerged that the 25-year-old prince is to train to become an Apache attack helicopter pilot and could find himself returning to frontline duty in Afghanistan in the role.

Army Air Corps commanders judged the 25-year-old's flying skills and ability were best suited to the military aircraft - one of the most advanced in the world.

Prince Harry said: "It is a huge honour to have the chance to train on the Apache, which is an awesome helicopter.

"There is still a huge mountain for me to climb if I am to pass the Apache training course. To be honest, I think it will be one of the biggest challenges in my life so far.

"I am very determined, though, as I do not want to let down people who have shown faith in my ability to fly this aircraft on operations. It is a seriously daunting prospect but I can't wait."

UK forces in Afghanistan's Helmand Province have employed the Apache to hunt and kill Taliban fighters, gather intelligence and provide cover for larger Chinook helicopters transporting troops and vital supplies.

Lt Harry Wales served in Helmand as a forward air controller directing air strikes for 10 weeks in 2007/08 and he has made no secret of his wish to return.

The Prince, who was an officer with the Household Cavalry Regiment, changed the direction of his military career and became a pilot to increase his chances of being re-deployed to the country.

Of course, since the Brits only have one Apache available for Afghanistan, he'll have to share time on it with the other pilots. :)



By: Brant