Commanding Officer: 'Harry Acquitted Himself With Distinction'
Written by Joanne Leyland
Friday, 29 February 2008
Page 1 of 2
Further praise has been pouring in for Prince Harry following the news that he’s defied the
threats to become the most senior member of the Royal Family in recent times to
serve on the front line.
The prince’s senior officer in Afghanistan, Brigadier Andrew Mackay, who is Commander
Task Force Helmand, issued a statement in which he said of 23-year-old Harry: "As
Commander of the British Forces in Afghanistan I would like to say a few words
about Prince Harry or, using his more recognisable title in an operational theatre,
Second Lieutenant Wales."
"The decision to withdraw Harry from operations was one that was not made
lightly and was given very careful consideration."
"At
the time of the decision Harry was deployed in the field, conducting operations
against the Taliban and we therefore had to consider not just the consequences
for him personally but those that he was serving alongside."
"As
a Forward Air Controller he has been deployed in the field for his entire time
in theatre. He has seen service both in the south of Helmand and in the North."
"More
recently he took part in a major operation to disrupt Taliban lines of
communication. In doing so he has shared the same risks, endured the same
austerity and undergone the same moments of fears and euphoria that are part of
conducting operations in this most complex of environments."
"A
Forward Air Controller provides essential cover to those soldiers deployed on
the ground. He controls the airspace, the aircraft that enter it and the
release of any ordnance. It requires an individual of cool nerve, mental
agility and an ability to make critical decisions in the heat of battle."
"They
are an essential part of counter insurgency operations and much rests on their
shoulders."
"I
know from my own conversations with Second Lieutenant Wales that he has
flourished in this most demanding of environments, relished the opportunity to
serve his Regiment and his country and is deservedly immensely proud of his
contribution."
"He
has acquitted himself with distinction. Like every other returning soldier who
has undergone or experienced intense operations Harry will now need some time
to reflect on his experience, remain close to his Regiment, spend time with his
family and friends and enjoy some well earned leave."
