The Duke of Sussex has written an emotional letter to bereaved military children ahead of Remembrance Sunday. As global ambassador of Scotty's Little Soldiers, Prince Harry used his annual letter to remind the youngsters that they are not alone and that he stands beside them.
A Message of Support
In the letter, the prince said: "Dear Scotty’s Community, whether you’re a young person who has been part of Scotty’s Little Soldiers for years, or someone older who is just now discovering this community under the new name Scotty’s, I’m glad you found us."
He added: "Navigating the grief of losing a loved one doesn’t leave you, no matter how old you are. Know that you are not alone, as this is one of the most universal experiences of being human."
Military Background
Prince Harry served in the British Army for 10 years, leaving in 2015. During that time, he completed two frontline tours of Afghanistan working as a forward air controller and an Apache helicopter pilot.
In his letter, he wrote: "I recognise that same spirit at Scotty’s, where the people around you will understand without you having to explain. They just get it, and that alone brings comfort and relief. No matter where you are in your journey, grief can often catch you by surprise, even years after a loss has occurred."
Tribute to Loved Ones
The Duke continued: "As the nation pauses to honour and remember the service and sacrifice of our military families past and present, I want to pay tribute to your loved ones and thank them for their service."
He added: "Above all, I know just as you do that they are so much more than a uniform or a name read out loud each November. They are a parent, child, sibling, partner, family member or friend who is loved and deeply missed."
To those gathering in London for Scotty’s Remembrance weekend, he said: "I hope being together brings comfort, pride, and even joy. That is, after all, what our loved ones would want. With my very best, Harry."
Charity Founder's Response
Nikki Scott, founder of Scotty's Little Soldiers, said: "It means so much to have The Duke’s continued support. His Remembrance letter has become something our children and young people look forward to receiving each year, and it feels particularly special that this year his message will reach our wider Scotty’s community too."
She added: "When I founded Scotty’s, it was to support children and young people who, like my own children, had experienced the death of a parent who served in the British Armed Forces. Children and young people will always be at the heart of what we do, but over the years we have learnt so much about the wider impact of military bereavement and the different ways it can affect people, which is why we have extended our support."
The letter was released ahead of the charity's young representatives attending the Festival of Remembrance and the Cenotaph Parade in London this year. Senior members of the Royal Family, led by King Charles, will lead the nation in remembering the war dead at the service on Sunday. The day before, the family will attend the Royal British Legion's Festival of Remembrance at the Royal Albert Hall.
