Dannatt Pulls Prince Harry From Iraq Deployment
Following Royal Anecdotes’ open letter to Sir Richard Dannatt, Chief of the General Staff, the General has just announced that he has decided against the deployment of Prince Harry to Iraq.
The Army chief travelled personally to Basra to assess the dangers both to Harry and his men. He talked to all concerned, including Special Forces who would have been involved in his protection, and has now made his decision.
Clarence House has commented, “Prince Harry will be very disappointed, but will remain in the Army”.
General Sir Richard Dannatt also said that he has spoken with Harry’s commanding officer about ways to facilitate the Prince’s future career as an Army officer. Harry is expected to be promoted to full Lieutenant next year.
It’s very good to go there personally to measure the dangers. Anyway, Harry will not be the only one to be disappointed…
By Lilyfromfrance on May 16th, 2007 at 4:26 pm
Yes, good call by Dannatt, Lily. He’s got his head screwed on and seems to be less political than some of his predecessors.
By John on May 16th, 2007 at 4:28 pm
I think that affair was too big for taking a decision on a chair. At least Harry can think his wish was taken seriously. I’m not surprised though. Despite his bad image I believe in Harry’s potential and I hope he will be useful somewhere.
By Lilyfromfrance on May 16th, 2007 at 4:44 pm
Thanks be to God! I am relieved beyond words that Sir Richard has made this decision. The risks in sending the Prince into combat far outweighed the PR benefits, in my view. I believe that I shall begin to breathe normally once more.
By Gigi on May 16th, 2007 at 4:51 pm
I give Harry a great deal of credit for having the guts to want to go. If only he could have gone without all the publicity. If no one knew who he was, he’d be in no greater danger than anyone else (which is considerable, though). Of course, it just wasn’t possible. To have him there not only puts him in terrible danger, he puts everyone around him in that much more danger as well. Tain’t fair, but that is the way it is.
Quite frankly - I’d like to see all of those kids come home and away from that danger, but unfortunately, I do believe we are mired in for a long, long time - no thanks to Bush and his crew.
By On The Outside on May 16th, 2007 at 11:29 pm
OTO, you’re right on that. My own solution would be to move the ground troops out, retaining a carrier force in the gulf to protect the democratic government and oil routes. Then let the country sort itself out.
That will come inevitably, of course, but not before a lot of beating of chests and blood-curdling cries to prove we haven’t been defeated.
By John on May 17th, 2007 at 9:18 am