The Royal British Legion Scotland is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh

We join the entire nation, and in particular the Armed Forces community, in mourning a decorated veteran of the Royal Navy.

Prince Philip served in the Royal Navy from 1939 to 1952 and was involved in active service on several occasions. He was a sub-lieutenant aboard the battleship HMS Valiant during the Battle of Cape Matapan, being mentioned in dispatches, and was awarded the Greek War Cross for heroism.

As first lieutenant and second in command of HMS Wallace, he served on convoy escort duties on the east coast of Britain and in the invasion of Sicily, where he devised a plan to deceive enemy night bombers and save his vessel from attack. He then joined the destroyer HMS Whelp with the British Pacific Fleet and was in Tokyo Bay for the surrender of Imperial Japan. 

The strong affinity he shared with his Armed Forces comrades, and his dedication to the honour of their service and sacrifice, shone through in his work.

He actively contributed to national D-Day, VE Day, and VJ Day commemorations. His good humour, wit, and record of service created warm and long-lasting impressions on the many veterans he met, who were invariably delighted by the encounter.

On 25^th July 1986, The Duke of Edinburgh made a visit to our Thurso branch to unveil a plaque to commemorate the branch’s diamond jubilee. He had flown to Dounreay and was entertained at lunch with more than 100 guests in the clubroom. Those members that were present that day still reminisce fondly of his visit. 

A courageous character and proud veteran, Prince Philip embodied the fortitude and resilience of our Second World War generation and our Armed Forces. We are immensely thankful for his lifetime of faithful service and we mourn his passing deeply.

As a mark of respect and remembrance of Prince Philip, all Royal British Legion Scotland clubhouse flags will be lowered to half-mast.

Our sincerest condolences are with our Patron Her Majesty the Queen, and all Members of the Royal Family at this incredibly sad time

Letter to HM The Queen from our National President - Letter of Condolence to HM The Queen from RBLS