The Prince of Wales has spoken of “fond memories” at his former air base as he returned to mark its 85th anniversary.
William, who wore RAF military pattern camouflage uniform, told trainees at RAF Valley in Anglesey that he “loved” his time there, as he visited the site on Tuesday.
He was an RAF search and rescue pilot at the Holyhead base from 2010 to 2013, when he and the Princess of Wales, who mark their 15th wedding anniversary on Wednesday, lived together in Anglesey as newlyweds.
During Tuesday’s visit, he met former colleagues including pilot instructor Brian Wills and chief maritime instructor Andy Batchelor, to whom he spoke about maintaining his flying currency.
Wills said: “In a heartbeat, he said he’d come back and do it again.”
Batchelor, who worked with William on search and rescue crews, said: “He’s a great guy, friendly, easy to get on with, a very competent pilot.
“He was very easy to work with. He just wanted to be Will, he was just one of the team.
“It’s great to have him back here for the 85th anniversary. He’s the Prince of Wales so it makes sense, but I think he’s got credibility because he’s lived and worked here in north Wales.”
Speaking to trainees at the station, which opened in February 1941, William said: “I loved my time up here. It was great fun.
“Your time up here will go quickly, that’s the thing. You’ll look back with fond memories.
“I do miss it. I miss the job, I miss the camaraderie.”
Lieutenant Commander Rob Andrews, who was at RAF Valley as a trainee while William was stationed there, said: “I know he’s got an affinity with this place.”
Source: BBC
