Prince Harry Off To Iraq?

Royal officials say no decisions have been made — but that's not stopping the buzz over reports that Prince Harry will soon be deployed to Iraq.

British newspapers are filling their pages about the security headache that a war zone assignment for Harry could bring for the British army. The prince is third in line to the throne.

The Ministry of Defense calls the reports "entirely speculative."

Prince Harry — third in line for the throne and designated royal rogue — always said he didn't join the army to play toy soldiers, reports CBS News correspondent Mark Phillips. He said that when the time came for his regiment to serve, he'd go with his men. That time may be now.

Known as Troop Commander Wales by his regiment, the Blues and Royals, the Prince has trained to command 11 soldiers and four Scimitar tanks. The unit is expected to be sent on reconnaissance missions that may last days or even weeks, probably stationed along Iraq's Iranian border to prevent infiltration by Shiite militants.

Most of the British troops in Iraq are based in Basra, southeast of Baghdad. About 100 British troops have been killed in Iraq.

In recent weeks, the Prince has been pictured stumbling out of some of London's best known nightclubs, says CBS News correspondent Sheila MacVicar. He's partied with Madonna, telling her of his love for Africa and the children's charity he supports there. A thoroughly modern prince, British tabloids say he's also confessed his love for his blonde girlfriend in posts on his Facebook Web page.

Older brother and heir to the throne Prince William, who is also training as a military officer, is unlikely to see action in conflict zones like Iraq or Afghanistan. Instead, military sources say, he will likely carry out his duties in Northern Ireland.