The dress is the buzz, but Con Coughlin explains the groom’s significant wardrobe choice:
Prince William’s decision to wear the red tunic of the Irish Guards on his wedding day has reportedly disappointed some of his Royal Air Force colleagues. Only the helicopter wings above his left breast will denote his role his role as an officer in the RAF.
But his choice will provide an immense boost for the 1st Battalion Irish Guards, which is currently on operational deployment in Helmand province, Afghanistan. As the Queen prepares for her visit to Ireland, it is also a smart diplomatic move.
The prince’s uniform and the military ceremony today serve as a poignant reminder that, while the nation’s attention is directed towards a historic event at Westminster Abbey, the Armed Forces – including some of Prince William’s fellow officers in the RAF – are risking their lives in Libya and Afghanistan.