Understanding the Seat Arrangement: Why Major Johnny Thompson Sat Behind Harry and Meghan at the Platinum Jubilee Service

On June 3, 2022, during the Service of Thanksgiving for Queen Elizabeth II's Platinum Jubilee at St. Paul's Cathedral, a curious seat arrangement was observed. Major Johnny Thompson, a close associate of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, took a prominent seat right behind them. This seemingly innocuous seating choice sparked considerable media and public interest, leading to various theories and speculations. In this article, we'll delve into the reasons behind this arrangement and the security measures taken during the event.

The Original Event and Initial Speculations

The Service of Thanksgiving was a historically significant event celebrating 70 years of Queen Elizabeth II's reign. The presence of Prince Harry and Meghan along with Major Johnny Thompson drew attention due to the ongoing media scrutiny surrounding their relationship with the royal family and their frequent attendance at royal events. The seating arrangement often reflects personal connections and affiliations, and in this case, it highlighted the ties between the Sussexes and their close friends.

Security Concerns and Surveillance Measures

Given the heightened security surrounding the Platinum Jubilee, questions arose about potential surveillance. There were speculations that Prince Harry and Meghan could have been secretly recorded during the service. This raised concerns about the potential misuse of any recorded footage, given their complex relationship with the royal family.

Major Johnny Thompson's Role

Major Johnny Thompson, a Lieutenant Colonel with the British Army, was invited to the event as part of the royal family's broader circle of friends and associates. His role was to ensure that any security concerns were addressed. The primary reason for his presence was to monitor and report on any suspicious activities, particularly focusing on the possibility of recording devices.

There were indications that Prince Harry and Meghan were indeed wired, as their movements and conversations could be monitored. Security personnel, including Lt Col Thompson, were alert to this possibility. Any unapproved recording would raise serious questions about the couple's adherence to royal protocols and confidentiality agreements.

Immediate Response and Outcome

Upon discovering any signs of recording, Lt Col Thompson promptly reported his findings to the authorities. As a result, Prince Harry and Meghan were asked to leave the event immediately. This swift action underscores the importance of maintaining the security and integrity of royal events. The couple complied with the request, ensuring that the situation was handled discreetly.

The Larger Context and Public Reactions

The incident at the Platinum Jubilee sparked a range of public reactions, with some speculations being more grounded in logic and others less so. It's important to note that while the media often amplifies minor details, the primary focus of the event was on celebration and the historical significance of the queen's reign.

Theories ranged from the mundane (such as Lt Col Thompson being there to monitor conversations) to the more sensational (involving unapproved recordings). Some users even pointed out spelling errors and made derogatory comments, underscoring the importance of respectful discourse in discussions about public figures.

It's crucial to keep in mind that while security measures are in place for royal events, the ultimate goal is to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all attendees. The actions of Lt Col Thompson were part of these broader efforts to protect the event and those involved.

Conclusion

The seating arrangement and the presence of Major Johnny Thompson at the Platinum Jubilee service reflect the intricate balance between personal relationships, security protocols, and the public interest in royal events. While the incident may have raised questions, the swift and professional response ensured that the event proceeded smoothly.

Understanding the context and the rationale behind such seating arrangements can provide valuable insights into the workings of royal events and the importance of security in these settings.