Prince Harry told veterans that they “should not feel lost without a uniform” during his emotional speech at the closing event of the 2023 Invictus Games, in what has been interpreted as a subtle dig at the Royal Family.
His comment comes three years after Harry lost his military titles in the wake of stepping down as a senior working royal along with his wife Meghan Markle.
During his five-minute-long closing speech, the King’s youngest son told veterans that “don’t need to rely on a uniform” nor should they “feel lost without one”.
Many have interpreted the comments as a swipe at the Royal Family, as Harry has been blocked from wearing military uniform on several occassions because he is no longer a working royal.
It started in April 2021 when Harry was told he could not wear his military uniform at his grandfather Prince Philip’s funeral, prompting Prince William and other senior royals to wear morning suits instead – so that he wouldn’t stand out.
He was also blocked from wearing military uniform at the Queen’s funeral last year, but he was permitted – against protcol – to don his Blues and Royals No 1 Uniform and medals for a virgl at Westminster Hall.
Harry was also spotted without his uniform for King Charles’s Coronation in May.
It comes after he was stripped of his military titles, including Captain General of the Royal Marines, following Megxit – a move that Harry felt was deeply unfair.
In his closing speech on Saturday night, Harry told the crowds: “A week ago, I stood here and told you about the significance of being able to wear your nation’s flag again. And so many of you have told me that that hit you right here [pointing at his chest].
“For many of you, the uniform you’ve been wearing this past week will give you a new story to tell. And for others, it may give your old uniform new meaning.”
He added: “But I’m here to remind you that after all this, you don’t need to rely on a uniform, nor should you ever feel lost without one.”
The words seemingly resonated with a lot of those in attendance, with the crowd offering a visibly-emotional Harry a wave of applause.
When speaking about why they shouldn’t rely on their uniforms, Harry said: “Why? Because everything you need is already within you. Tomorrow you will each walk away with memories that are different and unique to you.
“But my hope is that every memory made, brings a smile to your face through a sense of belonging and an opportunity for you and your family to look forward with price and purpose.”
