Big Move for Prince George: William and Kate Just Took a Major Step Toward His Royal Future

Prince George is beginning to step into his future role as a working royal, as shown by his surprise appearance at a formal event hosted by King Charles III and Queen Camilla on May 5.

The 11-year-old royal joined his parents, the Prince and Princess of Wales, at a Buckingham Palace tea party honoring World War II veterans-a poignant moment that marked his debut at such a prestigious royal engagement.

This appearance came amid the commemorations for the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day, a historic milestone that brought together the royal family, military representatives, and members of the public to remember the end of World War II in Europe.

As the eldest child of Prince William and Princess Catherine, and second in line to the throne, George’s presence at the event was more than symbolic. Sitting beside his father and mirroring his gestures during conversations with guests, he demonstrated poise and attentiveness beyond his years. One particularly striking moment saw George offering a respectful handshake to a veteran, with both his parents engaging in warm conversation nearby.

Earlier in the day, George had also joined his younger siblings, Princess Charlotte, 10, and Prince Louis, 7, for a military procession near Buckingham Palace. The royal children were given time off from school to attend, underscoring the importance their parents place on participating in national moments of remembrance. The family later gathered on the palace balcony to watch an RAF flypast, which included the famed Red Arrows.

This dual appearance-first with his siblings and then alone with his parents-marked a significant step in George’s royal journey. While it’s rare to see him without Charlotte and Louis at such engagements, the tea party offered a glimpse into the future king’s evolving public role.

According to palace sources, William and Kate have been mindful of striking a balance between public exposure and privacy for their children. Their aim has been to ensure that George, while understanding his unique position, still enjoys a childhood filled with normal experiences. A source close to the family previously told PEOPLE that they are “doing the right thing, protecting him so he can have as normal a childhood as possible, but he’s also dipping into duties as a future monarch.”

This isn’t the first time George has taken on a ceremonial role. He previously served as a Page of Honour during his grandfather King Charles’s coronation in May 2023-a role carefully considered by his parents before accepting.

The VE Day commemorations will continue throughout the week, with a Service of Thanksgiving scheduled for May 8 at Westminster Abbey. Senior royals, including King Charles and Queen Camilla, are expected to attend, continuing the week of tributes to those who served in WWII.

Prince George’s participation in these historic events highlights how the next generation of royals is beginning to take its place-slowly, but with purpose-under the guidance of their parents and within the enduring legacy of royal duty.