Importance Score: 40 / 100 🔵
Former Royal Bodyguard Graham Craker Passes Away at 77
Graham Craker, the former personal protection officer for Prince William and Prince Harry, has died at the age of 77. The dedicated palace staffer, affectionately known as “Crackers” by the young princes, played a significant role in their lives, particularly during the period surrounding the tragic death of their mother, Princess Diana.
Early Royal Service and Affectionate Nickname
Craker served as the personal protection officer for Prince William and Prince Harry, earning the endearing nickname “Crackers” from the brothers. He was a respected member of the royal household and a trusted figure in the lives of the young princes.
Role During Princess Diana’s Funeral Procession
In a poignant moment of history, Craker walked alongside Prince William and Prince Harry during the funeral procession of Princess Diana in 1997. He accompanied them as they followed their mother’s hearse from St. James’s Palace to Westminster Abbey, a deeply emotional and public event.
He further provided support by accompanying Diana’s coffin on its final journey to Althorp House, her childhood home and final resting place.
Memories from Prince Harry’s Memoir “Spare”
Prince Harry recounted anecdotes involving Craker in his memoir, “Spare,” published in 2023. The Duke of Sussex described how Craker diligently ensured the path was clear during the funeral procession.
According to Harry, mourners threw flowers onto the windscreen of the vehicles, and Craker repeatedly had to get out and remove them to ensure visibility for the driver. Harry fondly remembered Craker, noting the nickname and their positive relationship.
Recollections of Princess Diana’s Death
Craker also accompanied Princess Diana on various occasions, including a family outing to Alton Towers theme park in 1994. In later interviews, Craker shared his recollections of learning about Princess Diana’s fatal accident while he was at Balmoral with the royal family.
He described the disbelief and sorrow upon receiving initial reports of the accident, where it was mentioned that Dodi Fayed had died and Princess Diana had sustained a broken arm. Craker spoke of the emotional impact of the news and the difficulty in processing it.
Craker recounted a particularly moving interaction with Prince William the morning after the news broke. He offered his condolences to William, who responded with a simple, yet deeply felt, “Thank you.” Craker conveyed that he believed William found some comfort in his presence during that difficult time.
Later Years and Royal Recognition
Despite retiring from his role as a royal bodyguard in 2001 after 15 years of service to the royal family, Craker remained connected to the royals. He was a guest at Prince William’s wedding to Kate Middleton in 2011.
Prior to his service with the royal family, Craker dedicated 35 years to London’s Metropolitan Police. His commitment to royal service was formally recognized when the late Queen Elizabeth II appointed him a Member of the Royal Victorian Order. He was also granted the honor of Freeman of the City of London.