September 1982 and the Falklands war has been fought and decisively won. The aircraft carrier HMS Invincible docks at Portsmouth to be greeted with a thunderous welcome from cheering crowds, overhead aircraft and a cacophony of salutes from vessels nearby.

On board, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II presents a red rose to each crew member – including a grinning, handsome Prince Andrew , once dismissed as a playboy, now a bona fide war hero after seeing active service.

The 22-year-old promptly places the stem between his teeth and keeps it there as he saunters down the gangway, waving his white navy hat. And just like that, the nation falls head over heels in love.

Gone – at least temporarily – is his pejorative “Randy Andy” nickname. Second in line to the throne after his uptight elder b

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