Prince Harry has appeared by himself in a new photo taken at his home in Montecito as he reflects on the “overwhelming and isolating” impact losing a parent can have.
The Duke of Sussex stands with his fingers clasped together, wearing a white shirt open at the neck, a suit, Remembrance poppy and scarf in the image, which was posted on Instagram by Archewell on Thursday (November 7).
Harry donned the yellow and black-striped Scotty’s scarf to share a poignant message with bereaved military children supported by the charity Scotty’s Little Soldiers of which he is a global ambassador.
The organisation is dedicated to supporting children and young people aged up to 25 years who have experienced the death of a parent who served in the British Armed Forces.
In a letter to youngsters supported by the charity, the Duke said it can be “overwhelming and isolating” to lose a parent. He also acknowledged remembrance is “not only time to honour the extraordinary sacrifices made by our service members” but also “to recognise the impact these sacrifices have on families”.
Harry added in the emotional letter: “We find strength in the love and memories left behind, and I have seen how communities like yours can offer deep comfort and healing.
“Scotty’s Little Soldiers embodies this spirit of community. In coming together to support one another, you not only honour the memories of your loved ones but also forge bonds that can and will carry you through the toughest times.
“The tears and laughter, the shared experiences, and the moments of joy you create together are powerful reminders that love endures.”
Inspired by the experience of Army widow Nikki Scott, whose husband Corporal Lee Scott died in Afghanistan in 2009, the charity provides support and guidance to hundreds of bereaved military children and young people throughout their childhood.
Fifty-three members of Scotty’s will be gathering in London to pay tribute to their military parents on Remembrance Day.
Ms Scott said of the letter: “Prince Harry is completely dedicated to Scotty’s and takes his role as Global Ambassador very seriously.
“He understands what it is like for our members to grow up without their parent, and he also knows the sacrifices made by servicemen and women. It’s become a bit of a tradition now, for The Duke to write to our members at Remembrance.
“They also received letters from him in 2022 and 2023 and it means so much to them to know he is thinking about them and their parents at this proud but difficult time.”
Harry posted a message with the new photo, which said: “As you gather to remember and celebrate, know that you are part of a larger community that stands with you, ready to uplift and support you.
“Your resilience is a testament to the legacy of your loved ones, and I have every confidence in your ability to make them proud and to shine brightly in the world. All they want is for you to be happy.”
The Duke lost his mother, Diana, Princess of Wales, in a car crash in Paris in 1997 when he was just 12 years old.
