Prince William returned to Royal Air Force base RAF Valley in Holyhead, Anglesey, during a ceremonial visit marking 85 years of the historic training station. The visit comes ahead of his 15th wedding anniversary and highlights his continued connection with the base where he previously served as a search and rescue pilot.
The Prince served at RAF Valley between 2010 and 2013, gaining hands-on experience as part of the Royal Air Force Search and Rescue unit. During his return visit, he revisited familiar runways and training areas where he once carried out operational duties as an active service pilot.
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Now serving in a senior honorary role as Royal Honorary Air Commodore, Prince William inspected a ceremonial parade and met with personnel stationed at the base. He also took time to engage with trainees and staff who continue to maintain RAF Valley’s reputation as a key military training hub.
During the visit, he presented the prestigious Prince of Wales Award to the top Qualified Flying Instructor from No. 4 Flying Training School. The award recognises excellence in training future fast jet pilots who will later serve in frontline defence operations across the United Kingdom.
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Officials highlighted that RAF Valley remains a crucial centre for preparing military aviators, playing an essential role in developing skills required for modern air defence missions. The base continues to train pilots who are later deployed to operational squadrons across the country.
Eyewitnesses noted the Prince’s relaxed and familiar interaction with personnel, including handshakes, informal conversations, and brief exchanges with trainees. Observers said his visit reflected both pride in his past service and ongoing commitment to supporting the Royal Air Force community.