Prince William Takes Flight for Search and Rescue Duty in Falklands
Credit: Sgt Andy Malthouse/MoD via Getty Images
Prince William is flying high in the Falklands.
Leaving wife Kate Middleton at home, the royal newlywed took to the skies Saturday for his first sortie mission as a Royal Air Force search-and-rescue pilot.
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Taking control of a Sea King helicopter, William, 29, went through a series of pre-flight checks before lifting off for his first tour of the Falklands. Prior to takeoff, William spent much of his first official shift on duty analyzing the day's flying conditions with his four-man crew.
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William's recent deployment has caused controversy among those living in the South American islands, especially after new tensions rose between Great Britain and Argentina, who warred over the land in 1982. See more pictures from William's departure.
"I think it is an aggressive move to send [Prince William]…His presence will be regarded as a challenge," one Argentinian told the London Times. "After 30 years, I still do not believe these islands are British."
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William is set to spend six weeks in the Falklands -- his longest time away from Middleton since they wed on April 29, 2011.
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4unto thy people lie the land
Dianna was the most positive influence on their lives. I believe she will guide them to what is best and to what is most positive
I think Dianna will guide him..
if there is love it will spread