Outrage and Bemusement as Prince Harry Set to Receive Living Legend of Aviation Award

Senior military veterans have expressed anger and disbelief over Prince Harry's upcoming recognition as a living legend of aviation.

They view the accolade, which places him alongside renowned figures like Buzz Aldrin and Neil Armstrong, as a mere publicity stunt.

Retired officers argue that while Harry was applauded for flying an army helicopter in Afghanistan, it is his royal status that has secured him the honor, disregarding hundreds of equally deserving pilots.

Prince Harry is scheduled to be inducted as a living legend of aviation at an awards ceremony in Beverly Hills, California, next Friday.

The event, hosted by John Travolta, will celebrate Harry's contributions as a humanitarian, military veteran, mental wellness advocate, and environmentalist.

The statement on the event's website highlights his dedication to causes he is passionate about, bringing about lasting change for people and places.

Lord West, former head of the Royal Navy, dismissed the notion of Harry being a living legend of aviation, deeming it pathetic.

He believes the award loses credibility by selecting someone like Prince Harry, who did not achieve any remarkable flying feats during his time in the army.

Lord West suggests that the decision to honor Harry is solely driven by a desire for publicity, knowing it would stir controversy.

Colonel Richard Kemp, a retired military officer, concurs with Lord West's sentiment, describing the award as a self-congratulatory gesture among celebrities.

Colonel Kemp points out that while Harry served as a gunner in an Apache helicopter in Afghanistan, many others also performed extraordinary acts deserving of recognition.

He asserts that Harry's celebrity status, rather than his accomplishments, influenced the decision to bestow this award upon him.

The comparison between Harry and figures like Neil Armstrong has drawn ridicule from critics.

They argue that the two individuals are worlds apart in terms of their contributions to aviation.

Many others have joined in questioning Harry's credentials, with an RAF source expressing bewilderment over the decision.

An online poll revealed that nearly 93% of respondents believed Harry did not deserve the aviation award.

The skepticism surrounding Harry's recognition has led to widespread criticism, with some labeling it a joke.

Royal expert Angela Levin raises doubts about whether Harry truly deserves such an honor, highlighting his limited flight hours.

She questions whether his 20 weeks of flying in Afghanistan are sufficient to warrant the title of a living legend of aviation, suggesting that Meghan may have played a role in securing the award for him.

The controversy surrounding Prince Harry's impending recognition has ignited a wave of dissent, with many in the British military community voicing their disapproval.

The consensus among critics is that Harry's royal status and celebrity influence have overshadowed the true essence of the award.

As the ceremony approaches, it remains to be seen how the public will respond to this contentious decision.