On this Veterans Day and Remembrance Day, Prince Harry has taken a moment to express his deep appreciation for veterans around the world.
In a powerful statement released on November 11, the Duke of Sussex shared his heartfelt message, emphasizing the sacrifices made by service members and their families during both peaceful and turbulent times.
Harry, who is now 40 years old, reiterated his lifelong respect for those who have served.
He acknowledged their critical role in upholding the principles of liberty, freedom, and security, values that he believes connect us all and shape leaders within our communities.
“I reaffirm my admiration for you and your families,” he wrote, highlighting the importance of their contributions.
In a world marked by uncertainty, Harry encouraged veterans to remember the unity and purpose that defined their service.
He urged them not only to recall these ideals but to actively implement them in their communities.
“Your example is a reminder that true strength lies in our ability to unite and face challenges together,” he said, calling on everyone to embody the spirit of solidarity that veterans exemplify.
Having served a decade in the British Army, Prince Harry has dedicated much of his post-military life to supporting veterans and active-duty personnel.
In 2014, he founded the Invictus Games, an international sporting event for wounded, injured, and sick servicemen and women.
This year marked the tenth anniversary of the games, an event that continues to inspire and uplift those who have faced significant challenges.
“Your contributions to society don't end when you take off the uniform,” he added in his letter.
He expressed hope that communities would continue to support veterans long after they have completed their service.
“The gratitude we show should extend beyond mere words—it must manifest in our actions,” he emphasized, calling for a collective effort to honor those who served.
Prince Harry's thoughts have been particularly focused on veterans and their families throughout November.
Just days prior to his letter, he made a surprise appearance at the Pat Tillman Foundation's 20th annual Tillman Honors gala in Chicago.
At the recent ESPY Awards, he received the prestigious Pat Tillman Award for Service, recognizing his profound impact on the veteran community through initiatives like the Invictus Games.
Tillman, a former NFL player who enlisted in the military after the September 11 attacks, tragically lost his life while serving in Afghanistan.
He was honored posthumously with both the Silver Star and Purple Heart, cementing his legacy as a soldier committed to his country.
Additionally, last week, Prince Harry reached out to bereaved children of military families through a heartfelt letter addressed to young members of Scotty's Little Soldiers—an organization dedicated to supporting these children.
Drawing from his own experiences of loss, he expressed empathy for their struggles and highlighted the importance of community in healing.
Reflecting on his own childhood, Prince Harry recalled how the loss of his mother, Princess Diana, at the age of twelve left a lasting impact on him.
“It can feel overwhelming,” he wrote, acknowledging the isolation that often accompanies such grief.
Yet he emphasized the strength that can be found in love and cherished memories.
He encouraged the children to embody the values instilled in them by their loved ones: courage, compassion, and purpose.
These qualities, he suggested, would guide them through life's challenges, helping them to honor the memories of those who have passed while building meaningful connections with one another.
Prince Harry's closing words were filled with warmth and encouragement.
He praised their resilience as a testament to their loved ones' legacies and expressed confidence in their potential to shine brightly in the world, reminding them that their loved ones would want nothing more than for them to find happiness.
As Veterans Day approaches, it's clear that Prince Harry remains deeply connected to the military community, often joining forces with his wife, Meghan Markle, to highlight the importance of honoring those who serve.
His personal experiences in the military have shaped his perspective, and he continues to advocate for veterans in impactful ways.
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