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The Queen and Kate glow with pride as Wills passes out


December 14, 2006
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Queen Elizabeth and Kate Middleton had every reason to glow with pride on Friday as Prince William graduated from prestigious military academy Sandhurst.

Her Majesty, who was joined by Prince Philip and Prince Charles - both in full military regalia - told cadets they were all "very special people".Pausing briefly in front of her grandson - who served as a marker during the proceedings, to ensure his fellow newly commissioned officers stayed in formation - she addressed a few words to the Prince, prompting him to smile.

At the ceremony the future king became a second lieutenant. He will go on to join the Household Cavalry's Blues and Royals where his brother Prince Harry - absent from the event as he was with his own regiment - already serves.

It marks the first time Kate has attended a high profile official event alongside the Queen - both of whom wore red for the occasion - and further establishes her acceptance into the royal fold. The pretty brunette, who was impeccably turned out in her scarlet coat and stylish black hat, beamed during the event as she sat alongside her mother.

William, 24, has earned praise from his contemporaries at Sandhurst where he was determined to be treated the same as his peers. "He's just a normal guy that gets stuck in like everyone else," said Junior Under Officer Angela Laycock, who is in the Prince's platoon and won the coveted Sword of Honour.

Meanwhile, David Robertson, who received a medal for his high training scores, recalled William's participation during a training exercise which involved throwing potatoes. "I will be able to tell my grandchildren I hit the future monarch round the head with a 2lb potato," he joked.

Photo: © Alphapress.com
The handsome 24-year-old Prince became a 2nd Lieutenant as he passed out at Sandhurst Military Academy in front of his grandmother the Queen and girlfriend Kate on Friday. While inspecting William's platoon the monarch paused and said a few words to her grandson, causing the statuesque cadet to smile Photo: © Getty Images
Photo: © Alphapress.com
Kate, who was wearing the same hue as the monarch for the special occasion, was clearly excited to see her beau complete the first stage of his military career. Her presence at the ceremony marks something of a watershed in her relationship with Wills, as it is the first time she has been his guest at a public event attended by the QueenPhoto: © AFP

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