Prince WIlliam Leaving British Military

Full-time royal

Prince William, second in line to the throne and father of the world's most celebrated newborn, is giving up active duty in the British military for a life devoted to charity and public service, the royal family announced Thursday.

The prince, 31, is completing a seven-and-a-half-year tour as a rescue pilot based in Wales. Leaving the armed forces will allow William to become, in effect, a full-time royal representative dedicated to shaking hands, cutting ribbons, promoting worthy causes and generally preparing for the day he will be king.