Prince Harry has revealed the moment he felt he lost his "purpose and identity" after leaving the military. The Duke of Sussex made the admission while addressing NATO's military committee in Brussels via video link this week.
During his address, Harry spoke about the importance of foundations such as the Invictus Games in helping sick and injured veterans continue to serve their communities. He also reflected on his own experiences from his time in the military, which included two tours of Afghanistan.
Harry's words on leaving the military
Speaking to military leaders, Harry said: "We must think just as seriously about what happens to them after they have served – particularly when they return wounded, injured or sick. I know something about that transition.
"When I hung up my uniform, I felt as though I had lost not simply a profession, but part of my purpose and identity. I was fortunate. I had another way to serve."
Previous comments about military life
This is not the first time Harry, 42, has spoken about the impact the military has had on his life. In 2020, the Duke of Sussex spoke at a Stand Up For Heroes event in the US, where he said: "(My military) experience changed my life forever and for the better.
"It changed how I viewed sacrifice and service. I was born into a life of duty, but it was during my decade in the army that I committed to a life of service."
He continued: "My experience in the military made me who I am today - and it also connected me with some of the strongest, funniest and most memorable people I've ever met. Once we join this team, we are always part of this team. Once we've served, we are always serving, and proudly so."
The Invictus Foundation
In 2014, Harry drew on his military experience to establish the Invictus Foundation, which aims to bring together wounded ex-servicemen and women. The foundation aims to help support the rehabilitation of wounded, injured and sick (WIS) service personnel and veterans.
Every few years, an Invictus Games competition is held to celebrate the power of sport in the recovery process. Next year's event will be held in Birmingham.
