Prince Harry Shares Quiet Tribute to ‘Humility’ of His Grandfather Prince Philip at Wartime Anniversary

Prince Harry paid a quiet yet heartfelt tribute to his late grandfather, Prince Philip, on the 80th anniversary of Victory over Japan (VJ) Day. The Duke of Sussex orchestrated the laying of a wreath and a letter at the official commemoration of VJ Day on August 15. This tribute was a poignant gesture towards fallen veterans and his grandfather, who actively served during the Second World War.

The Prince’s request was carried out by a close friend who waited until King Charles and Queen Camilla had left before leaving the wreath adorned with poppies. The letter accompanying the wreath praised the courage and endurance of the service members, particularly acknowledging the “Forgotten Army” and their remarkable contribution to the Far East campaign. In a touching moment, Prince Harry extended special recognition to Prince Philip, honouring his humble service in the Pacific campaign.

Prince Philip’s wartime contributions were noteworthy, having joined the Royal Navy in 1939 and shown bravery during the Battle of Cape Matapan in 1941. His role as the first lieutenant on the destroyer Whelp during the surrender of Japan in 1945 further showcased his dedication to his duties. The memorial tribute held extra significance for Prince Harry as it offered him an opportunity to pay his respects, following a denied request to lay a wreath on Remembrance Sunday in November 2020.

Harry and his wife, Meghan Markle, had faced challenges within the royal family earlier that year, indicating a shift in their formal roles. Despite these obstacles, Prince Harry’s heartfelt tribute on VJ Day underscored his unwavering respect for veterans and his late grandfather’s legacy. The melodic backdrop of the Burma Star Memorial at the National Memorial Arboretum further set the scene for a moment of deep reflection and gratitude.

While Prince Harry’s actions on VJ Day evoked a sense of solemn remembrance, other members of the royal family also commemorated the occasion. Prince William and Princess Kate shared a heartfelt message acknowledging the courage, sacrifice, and resilience of all who served during the Asia-Pacific conflict. Their words resonated with gratitude towards the past generation’s sacrifices, echoing the sentiments of remembrance and honour that defined the special day.

The subtle yet powerful tribute orchestrated by Prince Harry reflects a deep-seated respect for his family’s legacy and the sacrifices made by veterans. As he navigates a path outside the traditional royal roles, his gestures of remembrance serve as a poignant reminder of duty, honour, and kinship. The VJ Day anniversary became a moment of shared reflection for the royal family, highlighting the enduring impact of past sacrifices and the importance of paying homage to those who came before us.