The Duke of Sussex has told bereaved children of members of the British Armed Forces that they share a bond due to having lost a parent.
In a letter to children who are members of Scotty’s Little Soldiers, a charity for bereaved British Forces children and young people, Harry said they are all in his “thoughts and heart” on Remembrance Sunday.
Harry said one of the ways he has personally learned to cope has been “through community and talking about my grief”.
In his letter, dated November 13, he wrote: “As many of us observe and reflect on Remembrance Sunday, I wanted to write to you and let you know you are all in my thoughts and heart today.
“We share a bond even without ever meeting one another, because we share in having lost a parent.
“I know first-hand the pain and grief that comes with loss and want you to know that you are not alone.
“While difficult feelings will come up today as we pay tribute to heroes like your mum or dad, I hope you can find comfort and strength in knowing that their love for you lives and shines on.
“Whenever you need a reminder of this, I encourage you to lean into your friends at Scotty’s Little Soldiers.
“One of the ways I’ve learned to cope has been through community and talking about my grief, and I couldn’t be more grateful and relieved that you have amazing people walking beside you throughout your journey.
“We all know some days are harder than others, but together those days are made easier.
“Today and every day, I admire and respect all the men and women who have given their lives in service of us – especially those in your family.
“I am also incredibly proud of you for being the best example in remembering them.”
Today on Remembrance Sunday our members have received a very special letter from Prince Harry.
— Scotty's L Soldiers (@CorporalScotty) November 13, 2022
Click to find out more: https://t.co/zOIasbDF5l pic.twitter.com/bDqvbweG7p
Harry has a long-standing relationship with Scotty’s Little Soldiers which was was set up by war widow Nikki Scott in 2010 following the death of her husband Cpl Lee Scott in Afghanistan the previous year.
She saw the devastating impact on their two young children and wanted to help others in the same situation.
Ms Scott said: “We are so grateful to Prince Harry for his continued support.
“Our members know that he truly understands what it’s like to grow up without a parent and it means so much to them to know his thoughts are with them.
“To receive his letter on Remembrance Sunday has given them a huge boost on a proud but difficult day.”
