The Duke of York will become the first member of the British Royal family to visit New York since the September 11 terrorist attacks. Prince Andrew, who was in the air en route to the US at the time of the hijackings and was forced to head back to the UK, is due to lay a wreath at a shrine to the Britons killed in the attacks, visit the American Red Cross, and attend a church service.
According to officials, the four-day trip, which kicks off on Saturday and runs through to Tuesday, had been planned for some time, although the royal program has been altered since the attacks. Andrew will also attend a festival celebrating Britain’s influence on American culture and ring the opening bell at the New York Stock Exchange.
The 41-year-old Prince, who has seen his share of military service – he flew helicopters during the 1982 Falklands war – retired from the Navy this summer after 22 years. Earlier this month he took on a new role as a roving trade ambassador for Britain, with a brief to drum up business both at home and abroad.
Photo: © Alphapress.com
During the trip, which will be the first by a member of the British royal family since the September 11 tragedy, the Prince will be making various humanitarian visits
Photo: © Alphapress.com
Following 22 years service in the Navy, Andrew retired earlier this year and has now taken up a new role as a roving trade ambassador
