Prince William remembered his late mother Diana on Thursday during a visit to Yokohama British Commonwealth War Cemetery in Japan. A framed photo of the former Princess of Wales laying a wreath at the cemetery 20 years previously had been left by the book of condolence, which William paused to look at as he signed his name. The black-and-white image showed Diana wearing a navy overcoat and placing a floral tribute on the memorial as she paid her respects on 7 February 1995.
After touring the cemetery, stopping to read and reflect at numerous graves, William then penned a heartfelt message to accompany his own wreath. "May we never forget all those who paid the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom," he wrote. William, who is touring Japan for four days before visiting China, then headed to a more light-hearted engagement helping to launch the Innovation is GREAT campaign in the Tokyo district of Roppongi Hills. The 32-year-old delighted the audience at Mori Academy by donning a traditional Japanese Happi coat and taking part in a sake barrel breaking ceremony.
Prince William then gave a speech revealing some of the jobs he aspired to when he was a young boy. "When I was younger, I dreamt of being an astronaut," he said. "But I also thought that I was going to be a policeman one day, as a very small boy. "I've always wanted to say I'd be something like a fire breather," he added. "But that's far too alternative. So sadly, just a policeman for me."
Coincidentally William's career comments came on the same day that Kensington Palace confirmed he had passed all of his exams to qualify as an air ambulance pilot. The Prince, who completed the 14 exams required to work as a civilian helicopter pilot, will undergo extra training with Bond Air Services before starting work with the East Anglian Air Ambulance service in the summer.