Prince Harry has been told this week that he can't go to Iraq as it's too dangerous. Gee whiz, I wish someone would have told our soldiers that before they went.
First question: Why was Harry allowed to join the armed forces in the first place? Yes, it's important to get a job and earn one's living but why oh why choose a job which can so easily be life threatening for a public figure? That's like asking an arachnophobic to work in the tarantula section of a zoo.
Second question: If it's too dangerous for Prince Charles' son, then surely it's too dangerous for everyone else's sons out there. Not to mention brothers, fathers and husbands. Not meaning to be rude against our Royal family, but what makes Harry different from anyone else out there - apart from that his gran still works for a living?
I'd like to make the point that Harry chose to join the armed forces - he was in no way forced. In doing so, Harry accepted that he will be going out to wherever he's needed and in whatever conditions.
I do have to say good on you, Harry' for wanting to be stationed with his men and for wanting to be treated like everyone else. Harry has gone into the armed forces with his eyes open, although he's maybe a little idealistic.
The media, however, has proved a hindrance by publishing where he'd be stationed, not only putting Harry in danger but everyone around him too. It's one thing that Harry's in danger, its quite another to put others in danger.
It is ingrained in history that our kings fight with their people. Shakespeare even comments on Henry V or IV (there are so many I can't pinpoint simply one) that Prince Harry - not the current one - fights with his men and is brave in battle. In fact, is it not a sign of a good king?
I'm not saying that Harry should go into Iraq all guns blazing and conquer the nation as past kings may have done, neither am I saying that the Queen should, but surely if the media kept away from publishing his location Harry would be able to be with his men in a job that he wants to do.
Let's give credit to Harry for actually wanting to work and do something. Personally if I was given the opportunity to sit on my backside all day or go to work I know what I'd choose.
So, what does the future hold for Harry? I can understand his family's concerns, but these concerns are shared by everyone with relatives in Iraq.
Needless to say, it's not only Harry who will be thinking of his comrades out there.
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