Prince William’s emotional message: ‘Never forget’

The Prince of Wales has taken to social media with a heartfelt note in the wake of “sad” news.

IN LONDON

Prince William has published an emotional message, paying tribute to the last surviving Battle of Britain pilot following his death.

The Royal Air Force (RAF) said John “Paddy” Hemingway died peacefully on Monday at the age of 105.

He was celebrated for playing a key role in the successful defence of his country against German air raids over a period of months in 1940 following the fall of France.

Following news of Mr Hemingway’s death, the Prince of Wales took to social media to express his grief.

“I was sad to hear about the passing of John ‘Paddy’ Hemingway this morning, the last of ‘The Few’,” he wrote. “We owe so much to Paddy and his generation for our freedoms today. Their bravery and sacrifice will always be remembered. We shall never forget them. W.”

William shared an emotional message on X. Picture: Aaron Chown -WPA Pool/Getty Images

Mr Hemingway passed away on Monday. Picture: UK MOD via AP

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“The Few” was a term coined by then-Prime Minister Winston Churchill to describe his country’s Battle of Britain pilots.

Speaking about his legacy as a World War Two hero back in 2019, Mr Hemingway chalked his experience all up to “luck”.

“I regard myself as an exceptionally lucky man. I have recently celebrated my 100th birthday, my health is good and I survived being shot down four times – twice in two weeks during the Battle of Britain – with just minor injuries,” he told the UK’s Mirror.

“I lived through extraordinary times but I don’t see myself as exceptional in any way. I’m alive because of luck.”

Meanwhile, William’s personal tribute came on the same day his wife, the Princess of Wales, hinted that they might be bringing their family Down Under in the not-too-distant future.

Kate hinted they may be planning to head to Australia with the kids. Picture: Chris Jackson/Getty Images

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Speaking to Australian reservist Adam Hamilton during the St Patrick’s Day parade and celebrations in Westminster, London, on Monday, Kate let slip that they’d “love” to return to Australia with Prince George, 11, Princess Charlotte, nine, and Prince Louis, six.

Speculation has been swirling for years about when the couple may pop back for another visit following their successful 10-day tour in 2014 with a then-baby George.

In early 2020, it was reported that they were finally firming up plans to return and shine a light on the impacted regions of the 2019-20 bushfires.

However, the Covid-19 pandemic hit shortly afterwards, thwarting their plans.