Prince Philip made an enormous impact on the United Kingdom as a Royal Navy officer and consort to Her Majesty. Not just that, but he was also a grandfather of eight. Today Prince William and Prince Harry released beautifully written statements about a man whom they were fortunate to know for a large part of their lives. A man who was a comfort to them during very difficult times and one whose irreverent humor they had the good fortune (or, perhaps at times, misfortune!) of witnessing far more often than others.
William accompanied his statement with a never-before-seen photo of Prince George in Philip's carriage (the Duke was a competitive carriage driver after giving up polo).
Harry, who is staying at Frogmore Cottage, according to the Daily Telegraph's Camilla Tominey, wrote an equally touching note about his grandfather. "He was my grandpa," Harry wrote, "master of the barbecue, legend of banter, and cheeky right 'til the end."
Philip's funeral will be held this Saturday at 3:00 p.m. London time. Due to COVID-19 precautions, only 30 people will be in attendance. A Land Rover -- that Philip himself helped design over 15 years ago -- will carry his coffin for an eight-minute procession to the gates of St. George's chapel. Philip has always wanted a low-key affair, despite his popularity in the U.K.
"His Royal Highness's coffin will be carried in a purpose-built Land Rover -- which The Duke was involved in the design of -- flanked by military Pall Bearers, in a small Ceremonial Procession from the State Entrance to St. George's Chapel, for the Funeral Service. Members of the Royal Family and The Duke of Edinburgh's Household will walk behind the coffin," Buckingham Palace said in a statement.