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Prince William's birthday gift: knighthood

by jessica.lam | June 16, 2008 at 11:56 am

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At the arrival of the Princes in their royal car, the Pirates of the Carribean theme song can be heard - played in by a military band. This is the day that Prince William is installed as a Knight of the Garter.

The Prince becomes a Royal Knight Companion - and the 1,000th knight in the register. The position reflects his position within the Royal family.

The Order of the Garter, established by Edward III in 1348, is in the Queen’s personal gifts, without advice from government ministers.

For William, the ceremony served as an early 26th birthday gift (his actual birthday is June 21). But for his girlfriend of about six years, it was another first to be included in so grand an occasion.

The Prince walked next to his father, the Prince of Wales, as the knights made their traditional procession down the Castle Hill to the annual church service.

As well as Miss Middleton, Prince Harry, the Duchess of Cornwall and Sophie, the Countess of Wessex, also watched the ceremony from the Galilee Porch entrance to the chapel.
It is understood to be the first time Miss Middleton has attended an official Royal public event.