The Prince of Wales has quietly taken on one of his most significant military roles to date, agreeing to serve as patron of the SAS Regimental Association, the charity that supports serving and former members of Britain’s most secretive special forces unit and their families.
The Daily Mirror reports that HRH accepted the appointment privately after visiting the regiment, becoming the first member of the Royal Family to act as patron of the association. Military sources said the prince spoke of his “great pride” in representing the organisation and in helping to safeguard the welfare of soldiers whose work is rarely acknowledged publicly.
Founded in the aftermath of the Second World War, the SAS Regimental Association provides lifelong support to members of the elite force, as well as to widows and dependants. Based in Hereford, it has assisted thousands of families since its creation in 1945, operating under a principle that no genuine case is ever turned away.
Those familiar with the discussions said the prince was keen to ensure that the achievements and sacrifices of SAS personnel continue to be recognised, despite the necessarily discreet nature of their service. He is also said to have expressed particular concern for the families who live with the pressures and uncertainties that accompany life in the regiment.
The appointment is regarded within military circles as a morale boost for both serving soldiers and veterans. The SAS, whose motto “Who Dares Wins” has become synonymous with British special forces, has played a decisive role in counter-terrorism operations and overseas missions for decades, most famously during the Iranian Embassy siege in London in 1980.
The development comes as the Prince and Princess of Wales released their Christmas card for 2025, featuring a relaxed family portrait taken in the Norfolk countryside earlier this year. Shared on Kensington Palace’s social media channels, the image showed the couple with their three children in informal country dress, accompanied by a message wishing the public a happy Christmas.
