Prince Harry becomes an army officer

Officer Cadet Wales is now a Second Lieutenant

Prince Harry today was commissioned as an Army Officer, having completed 44 weeks of training as an Officer Cadet at Royal Military Academy Sandhurst.

Officer Cadet Wales is now a Second Lieutenant and will join the Blues and Royals, one of the two regiments within the Household Cavalry and will aim to become an Armoured Reconnaissance Troop Leader - a job that could soon see him on front-line duty in Iraq or Afghanistan.

The Sovereign's Parade at Sandhurst Military Academy was inspected for the first time in 15 years by Queen Elizabeth II, in her role as head of the Armed Forces.

Queen Elizabeth II has constantly kept in touch with the activities of the armed forces all around the world, she must feel very proud as a grandmother, and of course as Queen.

After inspecting the troops, Queen Elizabeth II presented the prestigious Sword of Honour, the Overseas Medal and the Queen's Medal.

Later in a speech, the Queen said: “This is a very special occasion for me, as it is for all of you who are gaining your commissions today."

She then added, “This day marks the beginning of what I hope will be highly successful careers as officers in the British Army or the armies of our friends and allies, and I am pleased to see so many cadets from the Commonwealth and other countries on parade.

“I wish you all every success in your chosen career.”

The Duke of Edinburgh, the Prince of Wales, the Duchess of Cornwall and Prince William were also at the ceremony.

Pictures of the event can be found in the Royal Forum