Prince Harry’s Aviation Award Sparks Outrage Among Experts

In a surprising announcement, Prince Harry has been named a “living legend of aviation” by a U.S.-based organization, igniting fierce backlash from seasoned pilots and military personnel.

The Duke of Sussex, who stepped back from royal duties and relocated to California with Meghan Markle, is set to receive this dubious honor at a ceremony in Beverly Hills on January 19, 2024.

Yet, many within the aviation community are questioning the merit of such recognition.

The award comes from the Living Legends of Aviation, an exclusive group comprised of 100 individuals who have purportedly made significant contributions to the field of aviation and aerospace.

However, critics argue that this accolade may be more about money than merit, suggesting that individuals can essentially buy their way into the organization through donations or sponsorships.

Adding fuel to the fire, detractors have pointed out the irony of honoring someone like Prince Harry.

He has often faced criticism for his frequent use of private jets and helicopters, which seems at odds with his self-proclaimed environmentalism and advocacy for sustainable travel.

This contradiction has not gone unnoticed and has led to further questioning of the award's legitimacy.

Perhaps the most scathing critiques come from those with military backgrounds or extensive flying experience.

Many have dismissed Harry's aviation credentials as exaggerated and trivial, accusing him of leveraging his royal status to gain undeserved recognition.

The notion that he is a humanitarian has also been challenged, particularly regarding his controversial combat missions in Afghanistan, where he reportedly engaged in lethal encounters.

Retired Army Colonel Richard Kemp, who served in both Afghanistan and Iraq, was particularly vocal in his disapproval.

Speaking to the Daily Mail, he stated, “Harry was a gunner.

He was number two in the aircraft.

He wasn't even a pilot.”

He emphasized that operating a weapons system is far less demanding than actually flying a helicopter and derided the notion of labeling Harry a legend of aviation as “ridiculous.”

Another former military pilot, who chose to remain anonymous, echoed these sentiments.

He admitted that while Harry might be a decent person, his royal status afforded him protections and privileges that ordinary pilots do not enjoy.

“He was always flying with the best instructors and the best equipment,” the pilot noted.

“He never had to deal with the stress and pressure of flying in hostile environments.”

Some observers have gone so far as to suggest that this award is part of a public relations strategy orchestrated by Meghan Markle.

Known for her ambition, she has been accused of using her connections to enhance her husband's image and secure accolades that may not be genuinely earned.

Speculation abounds that the award is a tactic to ingratiate themselves with Hollywood's elite, many of whom are supporters of the Living Legends of Aviation.

A source close to the couple claimed, “Meghan is behind this.

She's the one who pulls the strings.”

This insider described her as someone desperate for attention and validation, eager to elevate Harry's status in America.

The source continued, asserting that Harry is merely a pawn in Meghan's game.

“He has no clue about aviation or anything else.

He's just a trophy husband,” they said, further labeling him as a “prop” and a “joke.”

This harsh characterization underscores the skepticism surrounding the award and its implications for Harry's reputation.

As the date of the ceremony approaches, the divide between admiration and disdain for Prince Harry continues to widen.

While some may celebrate his achievements, many in the aviation community view this recognition as an affront to the countless pilots who have dedicated their lives to the craft.

The debate over his status as a “living legend” raises larger questions about what it truly means to earn such a title in an industry built on skill, experience, and sacrifice.