The Prince of Wales has privately agreed to take on a significant new role, becoming the official patron of the Special Air Service Regimental Association (SASRA).
A Deep Sense of Honour and Respect
In a private newsletter sent to the association's members, the 43-year-old future King confirmed his patronage, speaking of his profound admiration for the elite regiment. Prince William described the SAS as "a symbol of courage, resilience and unwavering dedication to duty and the service of this country." He formally accepted the invitation, stating it was done with a "deep sense of honour and respect."
The Prince praised the work of the SASRA, a registered charity supporting both serving members and veterans, noting how it continues the vital camaraderie forged in battle and provides essential support to members and their families. The association, which is around 5000 strong, operates under the famous SAS motto 'Who Dares Wins' and proudly maintains that no member or member's widow is ever turned away if they have a genuine need.
A Long-Standing Personal Connection
This patronage is rooted in a personal history that spans decades. William first visited the SAS headquarters, Stirling Lines in Herefordshire, as a young boy. His connection deepened when he spent time with the regiment as a young officer, and he has maintained close ties ever since.
This ongoing relationship was demonstrated as recently as April 2024, when the Prince attended a private memorial service for Major Mike Sadler, the last surviving member of the original wartime SAS. The father-of-three now aims to further his support through this formal role, pledging in his message to help ensure "the sacrifices and achievements of SAS members past and present are recognised."
Boosting Morale and Providing Royal Approval
The association's chairperson expressed their "delight" at the announcement in the same newsletter. It is widely understood that William's patronage will provide a substantial boost to morale for both currently serving operatives and veterans of the secretive special force, offering a powerful royal stamp of approval.
Prince William, who completed over seven years of military service himself, is already affiliated with numerous regiments across the Army, Royal Navy, and Royal Air Force. His roles include being Royal Colonel of the Welsh Guards and Colonel-in-Chief of the Army Air Corps. He finished his active service in 2013 as a search and rescue helicopter pilot based at RAF Valley in Anglesey.
Concluding his newsletter message, the Prince extended festive wishes to the SAS family, writing: "At this special time of year, I wish you and your families a very Merry Christmas and a peaceful New Year. May the festive season bring comfort, joy and renewed strength to all within the SAS family."
