Now there’s been a different approach in King Charles III’s reign,” shares historian Dr. Carolyn Harris. King Charles has best…

Now there’s been a different approach in King Charles III’s reign,” shares historian Dr. Carolyn Harris. King Charles has bestowed a new military honor on Prince William, highlighting their close bond even as relations with Prince Harry remain strained. This move, described by a historian as a symbol of continuity between the monarch and the heir to the throne, marks a significant moment in Charles’s reign.

Last week, the Prince of Wales was promoted to Colonel-in-Chief of the Army Air Corps, a title previously held by Prince Harry. King Charles, 75, had held this title for 32 years before passing it down to his eldest son. Dr. Carolyn Harris, a historian at the University of Toronto, discussed this development with CBC News. She noted, “Events such as this particular ceremony emphasize continuity between the monarch and the heir to the throne, even though relations with Prince Harry remain strained.”

Dr. Harris highlighted that this transition is part of a broader shift in Charles’s reign, which includes the transfer of military patronages and titles. These transfers were not seen during Queen Elizabeth II’s tenure until the end of her seven-decade reign.

“In King Charles III’s reign, there’s been a different approach towards a strong emphasis on the monarch and the heir to the throne,” Dr. Harris said.

In an emotional speech at Middle Wallop, Hampshire, on May 13, King Charles addressed veterans, families, and staff. He described the day as a bittersweet moment after “32 years of knowing you all and admiring all your many activities and achievements throughout the time that I was lucky enough to be Colonel-in-Chief of the Army Air Corps.”

King Charles expressed his hope for the future under Prince William’s leadership. “All I can say is that having had the pleasure of knowing you so long, I do hope that you go from strength to strength in the future with the Prince of Wales as your new Colonel-in-Chief,” he said. “The great thing is that he’s a great pilot indeed, so that’s encouraging.”

This appointment underscores the ongoing tension within the royal family, particularly with Prince Harry. However, it also demonstrates King Charles’s commitment to ensuring the stability and continuity of the monarchy by strengthening the bond with his heir.

The move is seen as part of a broader effort by King Charles to modernize the monarchy and prepare Prince William for his future role. As the monarchy evolves, the transfer of titles and responsibilities to the next generation is becoming increasingly significant, reflecting a new era in the royal family’s history.