Prince George is already following in some familiar footsteps. The 13-year-old began attending Eton College in September, joining the school that educated both his father, Prince William, and his uncle, Prince Harry.
But beyond the classroom, another royal tradition raises a question about the future king’s next chapters, and that's military service. For now, George’s latest milestone is a family one.
© Max Mumby/IndigoAs his first half-term break approached, Kate spoke about looking forward to having her children together at home. During an October 22 visit to East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices, the Princess of Wales shared her excitement about the school holiday. “Half-term is a good time to catch up again on family life,” she said.
While his school years are only beginning, George’s eventual role comes with a longstanding family connection to the Armed Forces. Both William and Harry pursued military careers, although their experiences took them in different directions.
© Anwar HusseinThe tradition beyond Eton:
After university, William entered the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst before embarking on a career that included working as an RAF search-and-rescue helicopter pilot. He left operational military service in September 2013, having completed more than seven years of full-time service.
Harry spent a decade in the British Army, undertaking two tours of Afghanistan. His military experience subsequently became central to his work supporting service personnel and veterans.
© Anwar Hussein Collection/ROTAWhether George will pursue a similar path remains unresolved in the reporting behind the original story. In comments published in October 2025, former royal butler Grant Harrold discussed the possibility that the young prince could eventually become head of the Armed Forces without first undertaking a military career. His remarks were predictions about George’s future, rather than an announcement of the family’s plans.
© ADRIAN DENNISHANDOUTSpeaking on behalf of online platform Study Dog, Harrold acknowledged that such a departure was possible, while expressing his expectation that the connection would continue. “But it would be very strange if he stopped the tradition in the military,” he said.
A familiar school, an individual future:
George’s move to Eton represents one clear connection to his father’s upbringing. William and Kate accompanied their eldest son on his first day on September 8, when he was welcomed to the historic boarding school.
© WPA PoolMilitary training, however, belongs to a much later chapter. Harrold’s comments offer one perspective on the expectations surrounding a future monarch, but they do not establish what George will choose.
For now, his immediate milestones are closer to those of his classmates. Settling into boarding school, completing his first term, and enjoying time at home with his family. Whether his route beyond Eton will also include a military uniform is a question for the years ahead.
