A former butler to King Charles III has suggested the monarch would view the Duchess of Sussex's recent social media activity with favour, indicating a potential softening in royal relations.
Butler's Insight into Royal Sentiment
Grant Harrold, who served the then-Prince of Wales between 2007 and 2011, has shared his perspective on how the King likely received Meghan Markle's online tribute. The post, shared on what is known in the United States as Veterans Day, featured a video of Prince Harry in military uniform alongside a heartfelt caption.
Harrold stated he believes the King would be glad that Meghan acknowledged veterans, particularly given his son's own significant service. "I think they will approve it," Harrold commented during an interview with ReachPlc.
The Content of the Tribute
Meghan Markle's post, which has drawn significant public attention, included the words: "As my husband says, 'Once served. Always serving'. Thank you to all who served, sacrificed, and continue to serve. Honoring you on Veterans Day. And every day."
Reflecting on the post's nature, Harrold described it as a "very powerful video, and a very emotive post." He noted it signalled Meghan's move towards a more celebrity-style approach to social media, sharing content she deems important on key commemorative dates.
He emphasised the positive nature of the gesture, stating, "She’s marking Veterans Day - which is America’s version of Remembrance Day - and showing her pride in the active service her husband undertook." Harrold added a key point of connection for the King, revealing that Charles was "extremely proud of his son serving in Afghanistan" and would be pleased by Meghan's acknowledgment.
Prince Harry's Parallel Commemoration
Coinciding with his wife's social media activity, Prince Harry himself published an essay to mark Remembrance Day. In it, the Duke of Sussex elaborated on the purpose behind the annual memorial, highlighting that it recognises both past and present sacrifices.
"Remembrance has never been about glorifying war," Harry wrote. "It’s about recognising its cost: the lives changed forever and the lessons paid for, through unimaginable sacrifice. It’s also about honouring those who, knowing that cost, still choose to serve."
He also referenced his visit to a Ukrainian rehabilitation centre earlier in the year, stating, "Though currently, I may live in the United States, Britain is, and always will be, the country I proudly served and fought for."
Prince Harry's military career spanned a decade from 2005 to 2015, a period that included two tours of duty in Afghanistan. He achieved the rank of Captain and qualified as an Apache Aircraft Commander. A significant part of his legacy is the founding of the Invictus Games, an international sporting competition for wounded, injured, and sick servicemen and women. Over the past decade, the games have provided crucial support to hundreds of military personnel worldwide and raised global awareness for veteran care.
