Prince Harry leaves Britain's Army Air Corps

LONDON, Jan. 17 (UPI) -- Britain's Prince Harry has ended his attachment to the Army Air Corps and will serve as a staff officer at army headquarters in London, Kensington Palace said.

As a defense engagement officer, he will retain his rank of captain and his responsibilities will include helping to coordinate significant projects and commemorative events involving the army in London.

Prince Harry spent 3 1/2 years in training and operational service with the Apache helicopter force during his attachment to the Army Air Corps.

"Captain Wales has reached the pinnacle of flying excellence as an Apache pilot, particularly in Afghanistan and, in the process, has proved to be a real inspiration to the many Army Air Corps officers and soldiers who have come to know him so well over the last two years," Lieutenant Colonel Tom de la Rue, who commanded Prince Harry in the Army Air Corps, said in a statement Friday.