Princess Catherine's new military role pays tribute to her grandfather Peter Middleton, an RAF pilot who once flew with the late Prince Philip

The Princess of Wales (pictured at the Wimbledon Men's Singles Final) has been granted three new military roles by King Charles

The Princess of Wales, Catherine, has taken on significant military roles in the Royal Family. These appointments hold special significance due to her family's connections to the military, particularly her late grandfather Peter Middleton. Peter Middleton's involvement as a fighter pilot during the Second World War and his history of co-piloting flights with Prince Philip have established a meaningful connection between their families. Last night, King Charles, 74, announced that he had reshuffled some of the Royal Family's military appointments. In October 1966, the Princess' grandfather flew from South America to London Heathrow with Prince Philip on board.

Pictured: Prince Philip shakes hands with Heathrow manager Mr. C.D. Waldron in October 1966 as Peter Middleton (seen in a pilot uniform) smiles in their direction

Princess Catherine's new roles include being the Commodore-in-Chief of the Fleet Air Arm, Colonel-in-Chief of the Queen's Dragoon Guards, and the Royal Honorary Air Commodore at RAF Coningsby. These roles are noteworthy and show her commitment to representing and supporting these military units. The fact that the Princess of Wales' new titles were previously held by her husband and have a family connection to the RAF beyond Prince William adds an extra layer of significance to her appointments. Prince William had performed the role at the Lincolnshire base for 15 years from 2008.

The Princess of Wales pictured with the late Prince Philip on the Buckingham Palace balcony in June 2017

The titles bestowed upon the Princess of Wales hold a deeper significance due to her family's involvement with the RAF, beyond her relationship with Prince William. The fact that her late grandfather, Peter Middleton, had a history as a fighter pilot during World War II and even flew alongside Prince Philip adds a layer of sentiment to her new roles within the Royal Air Force. Peter met his co-pilot's grandson, Prince William, on his 90th birthday - and William attended his funeral with Kate later that year.

The reshuffling of the Royal Family's military appointments by King Charles demonstrates the ongoing evolution of responsibilities within the family. Prince William's assumption of Prince Harry's former Army unit and the Princess of Wales' new roles showcase the younger generation's engagement in maintaining the family's ties to the armed forces.

As the first anniversary of Queen Elizabeth II's passing approaches, the Royal Family would engage in quieter and more private commemorations. It's likely that the upcoming tributes will be heartfelt and respectful, honoring the late monarch's legacy.