The Duke of Edinburgh – Prince Philip, who had not been keeping well for some time now, breathed his last today. An official statement from Buckingham Palace broke the sad news to the world. The statement read, “It is with deep sorrow that Her Majesty The Queen has announced the death of her beloved husband, His Royal Highness, Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh. His Royal Highness passed away peacefully this morning at Windsor Castle. Further announcements will be made in due course. The Royal Family join with people around the world in mourning his loss.”
Prince Philip had spent a month in hospital earlier this year, and had only returned to Windsor Castle on March 16. He was being treated for an infection, and was hospitalised to have a heart procedure. The Duke of Edinburgh, as he was officially known, was the longest-serving consort in British history. He had been by his wife’s side throughout her 69-year reign and supported her all the time. He was known as a tough person with a no-nonsense attitude, and competence for infrequent indiscretions. He married Queen Elizabeth in 1974, and retired from public engagements in 2017 after carrying out more than 20,000 of them.
Prince Philip played a key role in refurbishing the monarchy in the post-World War Two period. He is also responsible for the walls of Buckingham Palace being the one essential structure that the queen could turn to and trust. Queen Elizabeth, in an exceptionally personal tribute to Philip, made in a speech marking their 50th wedding anniversary in 1997, had said. “He has, quite simply, been my strength and stay all these years. I, and his whole family, and this and many other countries, owe him a debt greater than he would ever claim, or we shall ever know.”
Born on the Greek Island of Corfu, Philip was a member of the Greek royal family. He was an avid sportsman who loved country chases. Although, he had no official role in the royal family, Prince Philip, was one of the most influential figures we know. He is survived by his wife, four children, eight grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.
