Barack Obama pays heartfelt tribute to ‘kind and warm’ Philip: ‘Will miss him dearly’

The former president praised “kind and warm” Prince Philip’s “unfailing good humour” in a 326-word statement on his official Facebook page. Mr Obama wrote about how, when he and Michelle Obama visited the UK, “Prince Philip immediately put us at ease”.

He commented: “At the Queen’s side or trailing the customary two steps behind, Prince Philip showed the world what it meant to be a supportive husband to a powerful woman.

“Yet he also found a way to lead without demanding the spotlight — serving in combat in World War II, commanding a frigate in the Royal Navy, and tirelessly touring the world to champion British industry and excellence.

“Through his extraordinary example, he proved that true partnership has room for both ambition and selflessness — all in service of something greater.

“As the world mourns his loss, we send our warmest wishes and deepest sympathies to the Queen, their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren; and everyone who knew and loved this remarkable man.”

The Prince, born on Corfu in June 1921, was the longest serving royal consort in British history.

He served with distinction in the Royal Navy during WWII and was mentioned in dispatches for his bravery during the 1941 Battle of Cape Matapan.

Philip married Princess Elizabeth, the future Queen, in 1947 renouncing his Greek and Danish royal titles to do so.

Mr Obama wrote at length about his experience meeting Prince Philip.

READ MORE: Matt Smith shares touching tribute to 'the man' Prince Philip

He said: “When we first met His Royal Highness Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, he and Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II had already been on the world stage for more than half a century — welcoming leaders like Churchill and Kennedy; Mandela and Gorbachev.

“As two Americans unaccustomed to palaces and pomp, we didn’t know what to expect. We shouldn’t have worried.

“The Queen and Prince Philip immediately put us at ease with their grace and generosity, turning a ceremonial occasion into something far more natural, even comfortable.

“Prince Philip in particular was kind and warm, with a sharp wit and unfailing good humor.

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“It was our first introduction to the man behind the title, and in the years since, our admiration for him has only grown. We will miss him dearly.”

Mr Obama was American president from January 2009 until January 2017.

In May 2011 he arrived in the UK for a state visit during which he and Michelle were hosted by the Queen and Duke of Edinburgh.

The former President noted just how drastically the world changed during the Duke’s 99-year life.

He wrote: “Like the Queen, Prince Philip saw world wars and economic crises come and go.

“The radio gave way to the television, and the television to the internet.

“And through it all, he helped provide steady leadership and guiding wisdom.

“It has long been said that the United States and Great Britain have a special relationship — one that has been maintained and strengthened not just by presidents and prime ministers but by the Royal Family that has outlasted them all.”

Since 1952 when the Queen took the throne America has had 12 different presidents.

The Queen’s reign has coincided with 12 American presidencies with the most recent, that of Joe Biden, beginning earlier this year.

George Bush, president from 2000-2008, also paid tribute to Prince Philip commenting: “He represented the United Kingdom with dignity and brought boundless strength and support to the sovereign.

“Laura and I are fortunate to have enjoyed the charm and wit of his company, and we know how much he will be missed.”