Prince William Breaks Silence On Queen Elizabeth II's Death

Prince William issued a statement for the first time following the death of his grandmother, Queen Elizabeth II.

In a heartfelt note posted on social media, the Prince and Princess of Wales said "the world lost an extraordinary leader." Here's a look at their statement:

"On Thursday, the world lost an extraordinary leader, whose commitment to the country, the Realms and the Commonwealth was absolute. So much will be said in the days ahead about the meaning of her historic reign. I, however, have lost a grandmother. And while I will grieve her loss, I also feel incredibly grateful. I have had the benefit of The Queen's wisdom and reassurance into my fifth decade.

"My wife has has twenty years of her guidance and support. My three children have got to spend holidays with her and create memories that will last their whole lives. She was by my side at my happiest moments. And she was by my side during the saddest days of my life.

"I knew this day would come, but it will be some time before the reality of life without Grannie will truly feel real. I thank her for the kindness she showed my family and me. And I think her on behalf of my generation for providing an example of service and dignity in public life that was from a different age, but always relevant to us all."

Prince William concluded his statement by saying, "My grandmother famously said that grief was the price we pay for love. All of the sadness we feel in the coming weeks will be testament to the love we felt for our extraordinary Queen. I will honour her memory by supporting my father, The King, in every way I can."

Queen Elizabeth II died Thursday (September 8) peacefully at the Balmoral, the Royal Family announced. Her son and successor, Charles, addressed the United Kingdom in a speech on Friday (September 9). His brief remarks touched on how sad he is for his mother's death and how much the world has changed since Elizabeth took the throne 70 years ago.