Prince Philip’s death on Friday at the age of 99 was the end of an era in Britain’s royal family.
Philip was a staunch supporter of his 73-year-old wife, Queen Elizabeth, and a consistent presence in public life.
When he officially retired from royal duties in 2017 at the age of 96, Philip has completed more than 22,000 solo assignments since 1952, giving 5,496 speeches during his travels to more than 76 countries, writing 14 books, as a patron for 785 organizations served and 637 solo made overseas visits, according to Buckingham Palace.
Philip was also a constant presence in the life of his family. In addition to Queen Elizabeth, the Duke is survived by four children, eight grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren.
After his death, leaders from around the world reflected on Philip’s 99 years of life and the legacy he left behind.
Buckingham Palace announced Philip’s death with a statement saying in part: “The royal family is joining people around the world to mourn their loss.”
The statement was shared on the royal family’s website, as well as the social media reports of royal family members, including Philip’s grandson, Prince William, and his wife, Duchess Kate.
The websites of the royal households and the profile photos on the social accounts of the royals have also been altered to honor Philip.
Harry and Meghan paid tribute to Philip on the website of Archewell, their non-profit and production business.
‘Thank you for your service’, reads a message on the website that was changed on Friday to contain only the tribute to Philip. “You will be greatly missed.”
Members of the royal family are not expected to comment further as they continue their mourning period.
According to legend, Buckingham Palace also posted an announcement of the death of Prince Philip at the gates of the palace. Flags at the palace are flown halfway from today until the morning of the day after the funeral service for Philip.
US President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden issued a statement on Friday recalling Philip’s legacy of family and service.
‘On behalf of all the people of the United States, we send our deepest condolences to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, the entire royal family and all the inhabitants of the United Kingdom on the death of His Royal Highness Prince Philip, Duke of In the course of his 99-year life he has seen our world change dramatically and repeatedly. “From his service during the Second World War, to his 73 years with the Queen, and his entire life in the public eye – Prince Philip has devoted himself to the people of the United Kingdom, the Commonwealth and his family,” the statement read. . ‘The impact of his decades of dedicated public service is evident in the dignity he has shown as a patron, in the environmental efforts he has advocated, in the members of the military he has supported, in the young people he has inspired. has, and so much His legacy will live on not only through his family but also in all the charitable work he has formed. ‘
The statement continued: “Jill and I hold the Queen and the children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren of Prince Philip in our hearts.”
Vice President Kamala Harris also issued a statement, writing: ‘His Royal Highness Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, has led a long, remarkable life – the hallmarks of which were loyalty and service. From his decorated service in the Royal Navy during World War II to his long marriage and partnership with Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, he devoted himself fully to his family, his country and the Commonwealth. Whether he promotes environmental awareness or the well-being of military families, he has brought a deep sense of purpose to everyone he has.
“Doug and I extend our condolences to the Royal Family and the people of the United Kingdom,” the statement said, referring to Harris’ husband, the second Mr Doug Emhoff.
British Prime Minister Boris Johnson spoke about Philip’s life and legacy in comments made outside 10 Downing Street in London on Friday.
“Prince Philip has earned the affection of generations here in the UK, across the Commonwealth and around the world,” Johnson said. “Like the expert coachman he was, he helped manage the royal family and the monarchy so that it remains an institution that is indisputably essential to the balance and happiness of our national life.”
Former United States President Barack Obama Former First Lady Michelle Obama issued a statement on the passing of Prince Philip, saying: ‘While the world mourns his loss, we send our heartfelt wishes and heartfelt sympathy to the Queen, their children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and all who know and love this remarkable man. ‘
“When we first met His Royal Highness, Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, he and Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II had been on the world stage for more than half a century and had leaders such as Churchill and Kennedy; Mandela and Gorbachev. “As two Americans we are not used to palaces and splendor, we did not know what to expect,” the Obamas said in their statement. “We should not worry. The Queen and Prince Philip called us immediately. put at ease with their grace and generosity and transform a ceremonial occasion into something more natural, even more comfortable.Prince Philip in particular was kind and warm, with a sharp mind.and infallibly good humor.It was our first acquaintance with the man behind the title, and in the years that followed, our admiration for him only increased. We will miss him very much. “
“Like the Queen, Prince Philip has seen world wars and economic crises come and go. Radio has made way for television and television for the internet,” the statement continued. “And through it all, he has helped to provide consistent leadership and leading wisdom. It has long been said that the United States and Britain have a special relationship – one that has not only been maintained and strengthened by presidents and prime ministers, but also by the Royal Family who all survived. ‘
“On the side of the queen or behind the usual two steps behind, Prince Philip showed the world what it means to be a supportive man for a powerful woman. Yet he also found a way to lead without claiming the spotlight – to serve in a battle in World War II. II, led by a frigate in the Royal Navy, and tirelessly touring the world to strive for British industry and excellence, “the statement read. . “Through his extraordinary example, he proved that true partnership has room for both ambition and selflessness – all in service of something greater. As the world mourns his loss, we send our heartfelt wishes and heartfelt sympathy to the Queen, their children, grandchildren , and great-grandchildren, and all who knew and loved this remarkable man. ‘
Former United States President George W. Bush said in a statement: ‘Laura and I are saddened by the death of Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh. During his long and remarkable life, he devoted himself to worthy causes and to others. He represented the United Kingdom with dignity and brought unlimited power and support to the sovereign. Laura and I are happy to enjoy the charm and cleverness of his company, and we know how much he will be missed. We join the worldwide heartfelt condolences to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and the entire royal family. ”
The British Army also shared news of the death of Philip, whose military career includes service in the British Navy during World War II.
Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison issued a statement reflecting on Philip’s service to Australia, a Commonwealth nation.
“Prince Philip was no stranger to Australia because he has visited our country more than 20 times,” Morrison said in the statement. “Through his service to the Commonwealth, he has chaired the presidency or president of nearly 50 organizations in Australia. Given his own service, Prince Philip has also had a strong connection with the Australian military.”
“The Duke of Edinburgh’s award scheme has been encouraging 775,000 young Australians to explore their leadership potential for 65 years. Forty thousand young Australians are currently taking part in the program,” he said. “Australians send our love and heartfelt condolences to Her Majesty and the entire Royal Family. The Commonwealth family includes sadness and thanksgiving for the loss and life of Prince Philip. God bless everyone here in Australia.”
King of Sweden Carl XVI Gustaf remembers Philip as a ‘great friend’ of his family.
“The Queen and I are deeply saddened by the death of His Royal Highness, the Duke of Edinburgh,” he said in a statement. “Prince Philip has been a great friend of our family for many years, a relationship we greatly appreciate. . His service to his country will remain an inspiration to us all. We express our sincere condolences to Her Majesty The Queen, The Royal Family and the people of the United Kingdom. ‘
India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi remembered Philip’s legacy of community service.
“My thoughts are with the British people and the royal family on the passing of Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh,” he said in a statement. “He has had an excellent career in the military and has been at the forefront of many community service initiatives. May his soul rest in peace.”
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Neytanyahu said Philip would be missed “in Israel and around the world.”
“I express my sincere condolences to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth, Prince Charles, the Royal Family and the people of the United Kingdom on the passing of the Duke of Edinburgh,” he said. “Prince Philip was the perfect civil servant and will be greatly missed in Israel and around the world.”
German Chancellor Angela Merkel remembered Prince Philip for his ‘sense of duty’ and ‘straightforwardness’.
“The death of Prince Philip fills me with great sadness,” she said in a statement. “His friendship with Germany, his honesty and his sense of duty will remain unforgettable. All our thoughts are with HM Queen Elizabeth and the royal family.”
Russian President Vladimir Putin sent a telegram to Queen Elizabeth, writing: ‘Many important events in Russia’s recent history are associated with the name of his royal highness. He earned the British and international authority.
This is an evolving story. Please come and check for updates.