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Salute at sunset ... pride of princes as they honour heroes
Sri Carmichael, Royal Reporter08.05.08
Royal soldiers Princes William and Harry helped raise an extra £500,000 for injured troops as they joined thousands of Londoners to honour Britain's armed forces in a sunset pageant.
The princes watched as members of all three services gathered on the steps of St Paul's Cathedral while crowds waved Union flags and cheered.
The extravaganza, which opened with three Eurofighter Typhoon jets flying overhead, was the culmination of the 12-week City Salute Appeal, organised by the princes who have already helped raise £850,000 to improve rehabilitation facilities for wounded soldiers.
City firms supported the appeal with 200 businessmen paying up to £10,000 each to hear Joss Stone sing at a private reception. William, 25, and Harry, 23, embraced Stone as she arrived. New Mayor Boris Johnson and top military officers also attended the party.
The cash is going to two charities, Help For Heroes and Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Families Association, which improves Headley Court rehabilitation centre in Surrey. An SSAFA spokeswoman said: "To have Prince William and Prince Harry, that's been fantastic."
Marine Ben McBean, who flew back from Afghanistan with Harry in March after losing an arm and a leg in a landmine blast, said: "Before this appeal, people didn't hear about soldiers' injuries. It wasn't in the papers. Now it is and people are aware."
The stoicism of British troops was summed up by Private Ilai Derenalagi who climbed out of his wheelchair and walked 100 yards on his stumps to take his place in the cathedral line-up. Pte Derenalagi, 33, of the 2nd battalion The Mercian Regiment (Worcesters and Foresters) lost both legs when his Land Rover reversed over a landmine in Afghanistan last summer.
During the hour-long parade tanks from the Household Cavalry - the princes' regiment - rolled down Ludgate Hill as St Paul's was flooded in red, white and blue.
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Whilst I agree with Rod's comment, I would like to point out that it will be nine years this July since the government scrapped The Royal Tournament the annual event in London which, over a two week period, raised much needed money for service charities. Bring it back!
- Charioteer, Sidcup, England.
I agree with Rod Gray's point. But "should" won't make any difference. Under this government, we have to find a way to do the right thing for Our Servicemen and Women. No-one else will.
- Jamal Akbhar, London.
The Princes would be better employed shaming the MOD into providing proper funding for injured troops. They should not have to depend on charity.
- Rod Gray, Berwick upon Tweed
