Philip, duke of Edinburgh, began his professional life in the Royal Navy in 1939. During the Second World War he served in the Mediterranean and Pacific, including aboard HMS Valiant at Cape Matapan and HMS Whelp during the final operations against Japan. After the war he continued naval service, becoming first lieutenant of HMS Chequers and commanding HMS Magpie. He left active service in July 1951 as Princess Elizabeth's royal responsibilities increased.

Elizabeth's accession in 1952 made him consort to the sovereign. His work involved accompanying her on state visits and Commonwealth tours, receiving visiting leaders and representing the monarchy at ceremonies. He also maintained his own programme of engagements and took responsibilities for royal estates. The role provided no independent constitutional authority, but offered a platform for sustained involvement with public institutions and voluntary organizations.

In 1956 he founded the Duke of Edinburgh's Award, developed with Kurt Hahn and initially administered by John Hunt. Its combination of service, physical activity, skills and expeditions encouraged learning beyond the classroom. Beginning with boys and later including girls, it spread internationally through schools and youth organizations. Philip remained involved in recognizing participants' achievements and meeting the volunteers who supported the scheme.

Conservation was another major interest. He became president of the World Wildlife Fund's British branch in 1961 and later international president, serving in that role from 1981 to 1996. He promoted scientific and industrial work, held university chancellorships and established Commonwealth Study Conferences bringing together people concerned with industry and community life. His public career combined ceremonial duties with advocacy and patronage across many institutions. He retired from public engagements in 2017, after decades of service alongside the Queen, and died in 2021.