Prince Harry issues emotional statement about British life five years after leaving UK
Prince Harry has published a heartfelt essay reflecting on British resilience and sacrifice as Remembrance Day approaches on November 11. In the piece, titled “The Bond, The Banter, The Bravery: What it means to be British – By Prince Harry,” he shares his feelings about national identity, courage, and the importance of remembrance.
The royal’s words come as the United Kingdom prepares for Remembrance Sunday on November 9, a day honouring those who gave their lives in wars and conflicts. He writes of pride in “all things that make us British,” while also recognising the profound cost of war and the determination of those who continue to serve.
“Every November the world, for a moment, grows quieter. We pause, together, to remember. Remembrance has never been about glorifying war. 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.”
Prince Harry recalled visiting Ukraine earlier this year to meet men and women rebuilding their lives after severe injuries. He described witnessing immense strength and perseverance among both soldiers and civilians.
“In every face, both military and civilian, I saw resilience and a fierce determination not to be defined by what had been taken from them. They reminded me that bravery is not the absence of fear, but the triumph of purpose over it.”
He also noted a connection between the humour and humility found in Ukrainians and the British spirit, saying that he recognised a familiar sense of courage and hope in them.
“There is a similar stoic spirit of self-deprecation and humour in Ukrainians, that I recognise more than any other, in us Brits.”
Author’s summary
Prince Harry expresses profound respect for those who serve, linking British values of bravery and humour with the resilience of Ukrainians in his Remembrance essay.