LONDON, Dec. 3 (UPI) -- Britain's Prince William is a finalist for the Sword of Honor, competing against six others at Sandhurst to be named the best officer cadet.
The prince just returned from Cyprus, following the final command phase, which determines whether he will carry the sword before the Queen at the graduation parade.
William was named to the short list despite his having briefly lost a machine gun during his final exercise, the Sunday Times of London said. Officials downplayed the incident, saying someone else had turned it in, even though the prince had signed the weapon out.
Military officials said Prince William is knowledgeable and has impressed instructors with his ability to think on his feet.
The Sovereign's Parade will be in two weeks. Prince William, scheduled to join the Blues and Royals with brother Prince Harry, also may be in the running for several other awards.
The Blues and Royals, part of the Household Cavalry, is going to Iraq. Defense sources said that although he will participate in pre-deployment training, Prince Harry unlikely would be allowed to join the unit when it is deployed. Prince William likely will have similar restrictions.
