Duke of York praises Princes William, Harry's Afghanistan desires

London, Feb 15 (ANI): The Duke of York has expressed qualified appreciation for his nephews Princes William and Harry's desire to serve on the battlefield.

Prince Andrew has served for 22 years in the Royal Navy, and has fought for the Queen and country in the Falklands War of 1982. So he completely understands Harry's wish to serve in Afghanistan or assume a front-line role.

But he also finds it a little difficult in today's circumstances.

"We are in two completely different sets of circumstances. Whilst I applaud the idea and sentiment and everything else, you have to remember that I was recovering British territory," the Telegraph quoted the Duke of York, as saying.

He went on: "We are not recovering British territory in the current campaign. It's a subtly different issue.

"The risks are completely different. But if you can manage the risks and be assured of the responsibility of the media [then it can be achieved].

"I can quite clearly see why it is frustrating for him [Prince William]. Nothing is impossible. But, being militarily parochial, it might be easier [for Prince William to serve] in the Navy.

"But I think it's fantastic that both he and Harry are showing such commitment to the Armed Forces while also remembering their royal responsibilities."

Prince Andrew is quite satisfied with his own experiences of serving as a Sea King helicopter pilot on HMS Invincible during the Falklands War.

He said: "I definitely went there a boy and came back a man. You only have to talk to soldiers before going to Afghanistan and then returning and they are different people.

"They have grown up. They have seen things and experienced things that perhaps they shouldn't have to, but the fact is they did. It makes you grow up very quickly." (ANI)