Prince Harry to take up new military job

Britain's Prince Harry walks to a Christmas Day morning service at the church on the Sandringham Estate in Norfolk, eastern England, December 25, 2013. [Photo/Agencies]

LONDON - Britain's Prince Harry has wrapped up his attachment with the British Army Air Corps and will take up a new military role as a staff officer in central London, the British Ministry of Defense said Friday.

The prince will retain the rank of captain and his new responsibilities will include helping to coordinate significant projects and commemorative events involving the British Army in London, according to the ministry.

Known as Captain Wales in the army, Harry spent more than three years in training and operational service with the Apache helicopter force during his attachment with the British Army Air Corps.

Prince Harry undertook an operational tour of Afghanistan as an Apache pilot between September 2012 and January 2013, working as part of the Joint Aviation Group which provides helicopter support to the International Security Assistance Force and Afghan security forces.

"Captain Wales has reached the pinnacle of flying excellence as an Apache pilot, particularly in Afghanistan," said Lieutenant Colonel Tom de la Rue, who commanded Prince Harry in the Army Air Corps.

He added Harry "has proved to be a real inspiration" to many Army Air Corps officers and soldiers.

Prince Harry, born in 1984, is the younger son of Charles, Prince of Wales, and his first wife Diana, Princess of Wales.