For their last stop on their historic North American tour, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge spent time with a group of people close both of their hearts: military veterans.At the "ServiceNation: Mission Serve Hiring Our Heroes" job fair Sunday afternoon in Culver City, Calif., Prince William and Kate took an impassioned interest in everyone they spoke to from executives, veterans, and family members of veterans. As Van Halen's "Right Now" played over the sound speakers, the two arrived at Sony Studios' Stage 15, beaming as they greeted the 1,700-strong audience.
"This is the last event on our tour of North America, but to my mind, it is one of the most important," Prince William said later in his speech. "This is because it is about men and women who -- of their own freewill -- choose to put their life on the line for their country. They are the front line of a remarkable relationship between the United Kingdom, the United States and Canada, which has safe-guarded our freedoms for a century."
As Kate gazed at him from her seat, with her hands clasped in her lap, William continued: "But Mission Serve is about something more than just men and women in uniform. It is about our other halves. The half that makes the loved one's duty and sacrifices possible and worthwhile. It is about you: families, partners and friends.
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"The idea behind Service Nation Mission Serve an initiative strongly supported by the First Lady [Michelle Obama] and Dr. Jill Biden - is simple, but truly inspirational. To help those returning from active service to open a new chapter in their lives and find employment when they retire from the military. Service Nation Mission Serve, and all the companies and employers taking part today, are providing opportunities which mean something very immediate and personal to us.
"Catherine and I both have friends back in Britain who could benefit from a brilliant initiative like this.
"I am delighted, therefore, that our Foundation -- and in that I include Harry, my low-flying Apache pilot of a kid brother -- is a partner in today's event. We have much to learn from you. Thank you for this opportunity. I would also like to thank Sir Howard Stringer, Michael Linton and Sony Pictures Studio for hosting us in this iconic location.
As this is my last opportunity before we leave this afternoon, I would just say, on behalf of us both, how grateful we are to have been welcomed so warmly in the Golden State and the City of Angels. Thank you so much."