Prince Edward Quits The Royal Marines

Special to the New York Times

Jan. 13, 1987

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Prince Edward, Queen Elizabeth's youngest son and fifth in line to the British throne, quit the Royal Marines today, breaking a century-old tradition of princes serving tours of duty in the armed forces.

In a brief statement that ended days of speculation, Buckingham Palace said: ''Prince Edward has decided to resign from the Marines. Edward leaves the Marines with great regret but has concluded that he does not wish to make the service his long-term career.''

The 22-year-old Prince started the yearlong Royal Marine officers training course four months ago. After reports last week that he was reconsidering his marine commitment, there were many remarks in the popular press that Prince Edward was not physically tough enough for the mud-caked treks in full gear and other endurance tests of marine training. These charges were denied by Prince Edward's marine commanders, but they expressed disappointment at his decision.

Prince Edward's father, Prince Philip, and one brother, Prince Andrew, reportedly urged him to at least finish his one-year training tour.

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