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Prince Harry opens the first Field of Remembrance for fallen servicemen and women in Afghanistan
9th November 2010
Prince Harry opened the first remembrance field dedicated to those killed in Afghanistan today.
The Prince, who has served in Afghanistan, planted a cross dedicated to his friend Lance Corporal of Horse Jonathan Woodgate, during the opening of the Royal British Legion Wootton Bassett Field of Remembrance in Wiltshire.
Prince Harry is currently training to become a Pilot with the Army Air Corps although remains a member of the Household Cavalry.
Today he wore his full Household Cavalry dress uniform with a blue Army Air Corps Beret, taking part in a two-minute silence ceremony to honour the 342 men and women killed in Afghanistan since the conflict began in 2001.
Two other Fields of Remembrance, in Cardiff Castle and London’s Westminster Abbey will commemorate all those killed in active service since 1914.
Up to 35,000 crosses will be planted within the grounds of Lydiard Park, each with a personal message from members of the public in order to commemorate those who died.
The Field of Remembrance is located close to the town of Wootton Bassett, which is known for its moving tributes to repatriated Armed Forces personnel driven through the town from RAF Lyneham.
During the engagement, Prince Harry met teams from the Army, Navy, RAF and Royal Marines hoping to raise £1million for the Royal British Legion in the 1,000 mile March For Honour, before setting them off on the march to London by shouting ‘Go!’ after the klaxon failed to sound.
After meeting The Prince, Royal Navy Commando Petty Officer Jason Gadd said: "I'm a great fan of the Royal Family and the fact both Harry and William are in the Armed Services is brilliant.
"You can really relate to him (Prince Harry) as he's done it. He joked with us in a bit of rival service banter.”
Prince Harry also met some local schoolchildren before joining a reception for Royal British Legion supporters and personnel.
The Wootton Bassett Field of Remembrance at Lydiard Park's Walled Garden will be open daily - 9am to 4pm from 9th November until 21st November.
Further information
Find out more about The Prince’s military career