Queen's grandchildren Prince William, Prince Harry to hold vigil beside coffin in military uniform

In full military uniform, Princes William and Harry will stand guard at the Queen's coffin in London on Saturday. Their parents had earlier gone through an emotional vigil at the Queen's lying-in-state in Westminster Hall.

Brothers in Full Military Uniform
Prince Harry, wearing a morning suit throughout the scheduled events in honour of the Queen, will be in military uniform along with his brother, Prince William, for the Saturday vigil. The change in the formal dress plan is at their father's request, King Charles III.


Why was Harry not wearing the uniform in earlier events?
Harry, it may be recalled, had joined the military following royal tradition. He served as a front-line soldier during his two tours of duty in Afghanistan. But despite being a former officer, Harry has not worn his military uniform in any previous events concerning the Queen’s death. Furthermore, subsequent to his decision to move out of the palace, Harry is no longer considered a working royal. Therefore, he cannot dress anymore as per the royal protocol. Instead, Harry has made California his home, where he lives with his wife (Meghan) and two children.




Royal Duty
The Queen's children, Charles, the Duke of York, Princess Royal, and the Earl of Wessex, performed the vigil on Friday evening.

On Friday, King Charles III completed a formal tour of the home nations (Wales, Northern Ireland, and Scotland).

The King is also scheduled to meet the chiefs of staff at Buckingham Palace on Saturday and visit the London Police headquarters to check the plans for Monday's state funeral.

State heads and dignitaries from around the world are expected to arrive in London during the weekend.

Meanwhile, the streets near Westminster Hall are witnessing thousands of people queue up diligently to pay their last respects to the Queen, lying in state inside the gallery.

FAQs

How long will Prince William and Prince Harry perform the vigil?
The two princes are expected to observe a 15-minute vigil.

Where will the Queen’s funeral take place?
The funeral will occur on Monday, September 19, at Westminster Abbey.