Prince William has revealed his “deep sense of honour” as he penned a note to members of The Special Air Service Regimental Association in a newsletter after being announced as the first royal to become a patron.
The Prince of Wales has built a relationship with the special forces community over many years, spending time with the Regiment as a young officer and remaining in regular contact since.
The Chair of the Associations shared the newsletter with members, confirming the patronage.
In the message, William says: “It is with a deep sense of honour and respect that I accept your invitation to become Patron of the Special Air Service Regimental Association.
Prince William penned a note to members of The Special Air Service Regimental Association after being announced as the first royal patron
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“The SAS has long stood as a symbol of courage, resilience, and unwavering dedication to duty and the service of this Country.
“The Association continues that camaraderie forged on the battlefield and provides essential support to its members and families.
“I look forward to working alongside the Association to ensure that the sacrifices and achievements of past and present members of the Special Air Service are recognised, and that the bonds of fellowship which define the SAS and its sister organisations around the world continue to thrive for generations to come.
“At this special time of year, I wish you and your families a very Merry Christmas and a peaceful New Year.
“May the festive season bring comfort, joy, and renewed strength to all within the SAS family.”
The SAS was set up in 1945 following the post-war disbanding of the original unit and provides help to hundreds of thousands of families.
The announcement comes as the Prince and Princess of Wales unveiled their 2025 Christmas card, featuring a relaxed family portrait captured in the Norfolk countryside during April.
Prince William has had a close relationship with The Special Air Service Regimental Association throughout his military career
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The card “sent a clear message of solidarity”, according to professional stylists, who suggested the Waleses made a “deliberate move away from high-polish formality”.
Photographer Josh Shinner shot the image showing William and Kate, both 43, seated on grass surrounded by spring daffodils alongside their three children: Prince George, 12, Princess Charlotte, 10, and Prince Louis, seven.
Rather than traditional festive attire, the family opted for coordinated country clothing in earthy shades.
William, Charlotte and Louis wore matching green knitwear, whilst George sported a brown gilet and Kate dressed in casual countryside wear.
The photograph was shared on Kensington Palace’s social media channels with the message: “Wishing everyone a very Happy Christmas.”
Princess Kate and Prince William’s Christmas card was released earlier this week
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JOSH SHINNERFashion commentators have suggested the seemingly casual image carried deeper significance.
Celebrity stylist Oriona Robb described the photograph to the Daily Mail as “a masterclass in quiet cohesion,” noting that the couple had selected “an earthy, muted palette that mirrors the children’s knits and layers, creating a sense of visual harmony without slipping into anything contrived”.
