Hundreds packed the streets of downtown Charlottetown Saturday morning for a rare royal sighting. Prince Edward wrapped up his visit to Prince Edward Island — the first stop on a week-long Canadian tour — with a parade marking a military milestone. The Duke of Edinburgh spent three days on the Island celebrating the 150th anniversary of the P.E.I. Regiment. “In times of emergency and in times of strife, they will be the first ones to support you,” he said, standing outside Charlottetown City Hall, addressing 80 unit members and the crowd gathered. The parade moved through the city centre to the sound of drums beating and brass blaring, tanks trailing behind, as the Union Jack waved from front porches. “I’ve always liked the royals,” said David Windsor MacNevin, who says he was just two years old when King George VI and Queen Elizabeth visited in 1939. Some shared their first impressions of the Duke. “I think the Crown is an important part of our history and traditions, and it’s fun to see him in action,” said Wayne Scott. “He’s obviously very personable.” Several people had the chance to meet Prince Edward at a regimental ball the night before. “Very approachable, very down to earth, incredibly charismatic. It was a very enjoyable experience,” said Sarah Jane Crabb, whose husband is a retired military member. Others stood by to cheer on loved ones. “My husband is in that jeep right over there,” said Sharon Birt-Gallant, pointing towards him. “I’m so proud to be a Canadian. It’s unbelievable.” For two visitor from Florida, it was lucky timing. “We just happened to be on the cruise that’s docked today. And we heard that the prince was in town,” said tourist Kevin Holmwood. “To be able to be here and see this — what a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” added Jennifer Holmwood. The day carried deeper meaning for those in uniform. The royal recognition, they said, was more than symbolic — it was a nod to their dedication. “It was an honour, really. I’ve never got to play in front of royalty before, so that was really cool,” said Cpl. Isabelle McNeill, a musician in the P.E.I. Regiment band. “It definitely raises the spirits of the regiment to have our colonel-in-chief being here and joining us,” added Cpl. William Carson. Next on the royal itinerary: Toronto, followed by Ottawa for Canada Day.
