Prince Harry announced today he is to leave the British army after 10 years' service that has seen him fight on the front line twice in Afghanistan.
The 30-year-old said it had been a "really tough decision" to conclude his military service in June, but added that he was looking forward to a new chapter in his life.
His decision will come as a surprise to many royal-watchers as the prince was living out his boyhood dream and seemed quite content with the army life.
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"I am considering the options for the future and I am really excited about the possibilities," he said, in a statement released by his Kensington Palace official residence.