Prince William Captured in Striking New Black-and-White Photo as He Stands Alone in Military Uniform

New pics just dropped of Prince William from his latest public appearance, and honestly, he's looking as dapper as ever.

The Prince of Wales, 42, stepped out for the Sovereign’s Parade at the Royal Air Force College in Cranwell on Thursday, September 12. He was there on behalf of his dad, King Charles III , 75, to celebrate forty-eight RAF Cadets who just completed their Commissioned Warrant Officers Course and Modular Initial Officer Training Course. Plus, there were four International Officer Cadets in attendance from Jordan, Kenya, Pakistan and Uganda.

While tons of photos from the event made the rounds, there’s one in particular that had us doing a double take. In a striking black-and-white shot, Prince William stood solo, looking every bit the royal in his military uniform (complete with the matching cap, of course). Oh, and his beloved scruffy beard ? Yep, still going strong and it’s giving all the rugged elegance vibes as he gazes intently at a flypast.

Chris Jackson/Getty Images

ICYMI, William debuted his scruffy new look at the beginning of August when he and Kate Middleton dropped a video congratulating Team Great Britain on their Paris Olympics success. It was the first time in eight years that we saw him with a beard, and naturally, the internet went wild. The beard didn’t last long , disappearing by the end of August, but it made its return when the royal got back to work in early September—and now, we’re here for it at the RAF College event.

Fun fact: Prince William actually has some history with this Royal Air Force Base—it’s where he graduated back in 2008, with none other than Middleton, his then-girlfriend, cheering him on.

Speaking of the Princess of Wales, she wasn’t there for this event, but it comes just days after she shared a personal health update with the world.

Chris Jackson/Getty Images

On Tuesday, September 10, the Princess of Wales announced she’s completed treatment (she revealed her diagnosis in March) and is shifting her focus to staying cancer-free, all with the support of William and their three children— Prince George , Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis .

“As the summer comes to an end, I cannot tell you what a relief it is to have finally completed my chemotherapy treatment,” she shared.

Want all the latest entertainment news sent right to your inbox? Click here .

Prince William's Beard Turned Heads During His Surprise Appearance with Kate Middleton—But I Totally Missed This Other Major Moment