Prince Harry Knighted by Queen Elizabeth II!

Ceremony took place in a private reception at Buckingham Palace

By Francesca Bacardi Jun 05, 2015 2:40 PMTags
Prince Harry, Queen Elizabeth IIMegan Ridgwell/racingfotos.com/Rex/REX USA

Prince Harry is more than just a prince now!

His grandmother, Queen Elizabeth II, has given him a major honor by dubbing him a knight! The 30-year-old royal received his new title, Knight Commander of the Royal Victorian Order, in a private ceremony at Buckingham Palace.

His knighthood reflects his status as a working member of the royal family, given he has served in the military for more than 10 years. He is set to leave the army later this month. Harry certainly had a busy career, having seen action in Afghanistan twice and launching the Invictus Games, which is a sporting competition for people injured during their time in the armed forces.

After leaving the army, Prince William's younger brother will volunteer with a conservation project in Africa and with disabled veterans in the United Kingdom. A source previously told E! News that the military will always play a very important role in his life, and he will continue to support those who have served or are serving in the Armed Forces.

CPL Oliver Carter/Australian Defence Force via Getty Images

It's "a topic he is passionate about both personally and professionally...He feels he can use his position to help in the future, regardless of his military role." And now the prince said in a statement that he will "always be hugely grateful" for his experiences.

"After a decade of service, moving on from the Army has been a really tough decision. I consider myself incredibly lucky to have had the chance to do some very challenging jobs and have met many fantastic people in the process," his statement read.

"So while I am finishing one part of my life, I am getting straight into a new chapter," he said. "I am really looking forward to it."

Although he has short-term plans prepared, he is still weighing his options when it comes to the long term.

"I am considering the options for the future and I am really excited about the possibilities," the statement continued. "I am also looking forward to coming back to London this summer to continue working at the Personal Recovery Unit."