These two photos were taken by Paul Ratcliffe. He is the copyright holder, and he kindly gave permission for me to use them.
On July 9, a ceremony was held to honor the last surviving airmen who took party in the Battle of Britain. A celebration took place at the RAF Club in Piccadilly.
Prior to this event, members of the Royal Family were on the balcony at Buckingham Palace for a flyover.
There was some criticism from the less informed (those who prefer to throw stones rather than be factual) as to why the Duchess of Cambridge did not join her husband on the balcony.
Easy answer, as stated by a RAF spokesman. The Duchess of Cambridge is not an honorary air commodore. The invitation was limited to those members of the Royal Family who are honorary air commodores.
The Duchesses of Gloucester and Kent and Princess Michael of Kent were not present on the balcony for the same reason. The Duchess of Cornwall and the Countess of Wessex are honorary air commodores.
So are the Princess Royal and Princess Alexandra.
The Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall were on an official visit to Wales and the Princess Royal was abroad for official engagements, which is why none were present.
The Duchess of Cambridge will receive more military patronages, etc., but these will come in time, especially when she is the wife of the heir to the throne.
It is so easy to throw stones. Less easy to take the time to get the facts.
Thank you for giving us this information. I had thought only blood relations would be on the balcony, but then that would not explain the Countess. I was just curious. I find your blog very interesting precisely for this sort of thing, which is providing facts and not the usual hearsay. Thanks again.
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