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The British royal family is in mourning following the tragic death of Mark Long, a distinguished Royal Air Force (RAF) pilot, who died on May 25 in a crash while flying a World War II-era Spitfire plane. The accident has deeply affected many, including Prince William and Kate Middleton, who have publicly expressed their condolences.
"Incredibly sad to hear of the news this afternoon from RAF Coningsby", the royal couple shared on X, formerly known as Twitter, on the same day of the incident. "Our thoughts this evening are with the pilot's loved ones, the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, and the wider RAF family".
Mark Long's death was confirmed by Group Captain Robbie Lees, who paid tribute to him as a "great friend, colleague, and a passionate, professional aviator". The RAF hasinitiated an investigation into the cause of the crash, with Group Captain Lees urging the public to refrain from speculation until the investigation is complete.
"I would like to extend a sincere thank you to the RAF personnel and our emergency services colleagues who responded so swiftly yesterday", Lees stated. "Our thoughts remain with Mark's family and friends to whom we offer our deepest sympathies. We ask that their privacy be respected at this tragic and shocking time.
The Spitfire, the aircraft involved in the crash, holds a special place in British history. According to the Royal Air Force Museum, the Spitfire is the most famous British fighter aircraft and became a symbol of freedom during the summer of 1940, when it was used
against German air attacks in the Battle of Britain.
Prince William and Kate Middleton's heartfelt message reflects their close ties to the RAF. The couple, who have three children—Prince George, 10, Princess Charlotte, 9, and Prince Louis, 6—are deeply involved with the armed forces. Recently, King Charles III bestowed the title of Colonel-in-Chief of the Army Air Corps upon Prince William, a title that the monarch himself held for 30 years. In August, Kate was appointed Honorary Air Commandant of Royal Air Force Coningsby, taking over a role previously held by her husband.
Kate's recent diagnosis with cancer has kept her out of the public eye, making her expression of grief and solidarity with the RAF community even more poignant. The royal family's support and involvement with the RAF highlight their enduring commitment to the armed forces and the sacrifices made by its members.
As the investigation into the crash continues, the nation joins the royal family in honoring Mark Long's memory and offering condolences to his loved ones. The legacy of his service, much like the iconic Spitfire he flew, will be remembered as a testament to bravery and dedication.
