Key Highlights
- Prince Harry wrote an essay titled “The Bond, the Banter, the Bravery” ahead of Remembrance Day.
- The Duke of Sussex paid tribute to veterans and highlighted British values such as banter and courage.
- Harry expressed his pride in having served for his country and called on people to support those who have fought.
- The essay emphasizes the need to remember both fallen soldiers and living veterans, encouraging community engagement.
Prince Harry’s Reflections on British Values and Remembrance Day
Ahead of Remembrance Day in 2025, Prince Harry published an essay titled “The Bond, the Banter, the Bravery,” expressing his pride in having served for his country and calling on people to support those who have fought. The Duke of Sussex wrote this piece while living in the United States but emphasized that Britain is, and always will be, his home.
Reflections on British Values
In his essay, Prince Harry praised “the banter of the mess, the clubhouse, the pub, the stands” as integral to what makes Britons unique. He stated, “These are the things that make us British. I make no apology for it. I love it.” This reflection on everyday social interactions highlights how they contribute to a sense of national identity.
Recognition of Veterans’ Courage and Compassion
Prince Harry’s essay also reflected on his experience visiting soldiers and civilians in Ukraine earlier this year, noting their “stoic spirit of self-deprecation and humour” as reminiscent of British traits. He emphasized the “courage and compassion in the harshest conditions imaginable,” witnessed by those who served alongside men and women from all four corners of the UK.
The Duty to Support Veterans
A significant portion of Prince Harry’s essay focused on his call for society to remember and support veterans. He warned that “once the uniform comes off, it can be easy for those who served to feel forgotten.” The Duke urged a lifelong commitment to empathy, gratitude, and action towards ensuring veterans’ futures are safeguarded through opportunity and respect.
Call to Action and Community Engagement
In his conclusion, Prince Harry encouraged people to remember not only the fallen but also the living—those who still carry the weight of war in body and mind—and their families. He implored readers to engage with veterans personally: “If you live near them, knock on their door. If you see them around, shake their hand.” This direct appeal emphasizes the importance of individual action beyond formal remembrance events.
Prince Harry’s essay serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring values that unite Britons and the critical role played by veterans in upholding these values. His reflections on service, sacrifice, and community engagement underscore the broader themes of Remembrance Day, encouraging continued support for those who have served their country.
