I missed their first visit to NZ - 1953- (just been born then) then lined up in Auckland in 1963 to see them as a kid, (huge event in those days) Always thought Phillip seemed a hard case, pretty normal sort of guy, considering his restraints. I participated as a youngster in the Duke of Edinburghs' award, outdoor training, and still have my achievement book somewhere. I remember the Britannia arriving in Auckland, and still have photos I took of her with an old box Brownie camera. Was impressed, even as a 10yr old with the immaculate glossy blue paint on the hull, no other ship compared.

Phillips' death will be a big (but not unexpected) loss to all those who grew up with the Royal Family always being there, standing in the theatres etc for the Royal Anthem, Christmas messages, enjoying their visits, (Philip visited Aust 32 times (16 without the Queen) and NZ 10 times with the Queen, and a number by himself. On one visit to NZ, he was asked if he wanted to have a crack at shearing a sheep, he declined and said "I might nick it, and I've had enough mutton already."😁 Always seemed to have a clever reply.

A few pics from the NZ visits ( he was looking a bit worn on their last visit-2002)

JB

Les, who was my mate on Centaur in 1956 sent me this photo last night. He was an Arethusa boy and took it in the classroom on one of Prince Phillip's visit to the ship. It shows the prince standing next to my father, uniform two rings, who was a schoolmaster on the ship . Lt. Phillip Mountbatten and my father were members of the same officer's mess at RNB Portsmouth at the end of the war and in latter years on his fairly frequent visits to Arethusa, he always made a point of having a chat with him.

Cheers, Nerys
.

So true Doug.
Rick

"he will not have the send off that would have been without covid"
As I understand it Rick the Duke's personal wish was "No fuss!"
As you say 'a life well lived', more than enough for several 'normal' men!
Best wishes to thee and thine, Doug.

I was thinking today, when I heard the news of the Duke's passing, that the Queen is the last world leader who experienced WW 2. The Queen and Prince Philip shared a life together for 70 years. And I continue to read about couples that can not keep their commitment for even two years, and they had none of the responsibilities, none of the demands that are imposed upon the Royal family.
Rest In Peace Philip, you have earned it. You are an example of what the world was, but sadly, will never be again.

And many other countries where Philip was also revered Mike.
☹️

A sad day for GB