Prince William has looked into the future and been frightened at the thought of attending all those charity dinners and ribbon cutting ceremonies opening hospitals, the kind of thing which would have been his lot in life had he left military service at the end of the year. Instead, he's opted for a full-time military career and will train to become a pilot in the Royal Air Force's search and rescue teams.
"The time I spent with the RAF earlier this year made me realize how much I love flying," William, 26, said in a statement.
"Joining Search and Rescue is a perfect opportunity for me to serve in the Forces operationally, while contributing to a vital part of the country's Emergency Services."
His training is 18 months long, starting in January 2009 and concluding by summer 2010 when he will embark on a tour of duty typically lasting up to three years.
William also expressed a desire to "build on the experience and training I have received" and see action in the armed forces – something his brother Prince Harry, who turned 24 Sept. 15, was able to experience in Afghanistan.
