Princess Kate has issued a rare public statement during her ongoing cancer treatment, expressing her condolences after the tragic death of Squadron Leader Mark Long. Long was killed in a Spitfire crash belonging to the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight (BBMF) at RAF Coningsby in Lincolnshire, England, on Sunday. An investigation into the cause of the crash has been launched.
The BBMF is dedicated to preserving wartime aircraft and boasts six of the last few dozen airworthy Spitfires. Princess Kate's statement comes during a significant period of absence from her public duties following abdominal surgery and a subsequent cancer diagnosis earlier this year.
In a heartfelt message shared on social media, Princess Kate and Prince William, who is the Honorary Air Commodore of RAF Coningsby, wrote: "Incredibly sad to hear of the news this afternoon from RAF Coningsby. Our thoughts this evening are with the pilot's loved ones, the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, and the wider RAF family. W & C."
T his marks a rare public appearance by Princess Kate since her diagnosis. She had previously been the subject of widespread speculation about her health until she confirmed on March 22 that she had begun chemotherapy.
Group Captain Robbie Lees, Commander of the Display Air Wing, spoke to The Guardian about the loss: "It is with great sorrow that I must confirm the death of Sqn Ldr Mark Long. Mark was a Typhoon pilot here at RAF Coningsby and for the last four years, he has been a pilot with the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight. A great friend, colleague, and a passionate, professional aviator, he will be sorely missed by all who knew him."
Despite her health challenges, Princess Kate has continued to make carefully considered public statements. In April, she joined Prince William in addressing the community after a series of stabbings at Westfield shopping center in Sydney, Australia, expressing their shock and sympathy for those affected.
A major report on her early childhood initiative was released by Kensington Palace on May 20, though Princess Kate did not accompany it with a statement, highlighting the cautious approach to her public engagements during her treatment.
As Princess Kate continues her recovery, her infrequent but poignant public statements underscore her dedication to her royal duties and her support for causes close to her heart.
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