Prince Harry made a surprise appearance at the Heroic Hearts Project Gala on Saturday.
The event was put on to support veterans with PTSD, and was started by former Army Ranger Jesse Gould.
The gala was held at the USS Hornet Museum in California.
The Duke made an appearance during the presentations as he offered words of kindness and support for all the veterans, saying: “The future is about stepping into what is next, stronger, connected and with a sense of purpose.
Prince Harry had a special message for veterans on Saturday
|
X
“As a combat veteran who cares deeply about mental fitness, I’ve seen how important genuine, veteran-led support is.
“You guys have created this safe space, where courage isn’t defined by silence but by showing up. Where strength isn’t the absence of struggle, but the willingness to face it.”
The surprise visit comes just days after the former soldier penned a heartfelt message to Scotty’s Little Soldiers, a charity for bereaved military children.
In the letter, he said: “This time of year can bring a lot of emotions – pride, love and sometimes sadness – as you remember your parent or loved one who served our country. Please know you’re not alone in that.
“You’ve got each other and a whole community of friends and family who understand what this time means and who are standing right beside you, myself included.
Prince Harry is the Global Ambassador for Scotty’s
|
PA
“Every time I see what Scotty’s families do – the way you remember your loved ones while still finding joy and living life to the fullest – I’m reminded of just how strong and inspiring you all are.
“Your mums and dads would be so proud of you. We all are. The way you support one another, grieve and laugh together, and keep moving forward, says so much about the kind of people they were too.”
Harry completed two operational deployments in Afghanistan and serves as a global ambassador for the Norfolk-based organisation.
The 41-year-old reflected on his own time in the military, saying: “ I often think back to my own time in the military; the friendships, the laughs, and the sense that no matter what, someone’s got your back. That same spirit lives in all of you.
“Through Scotty’s, you carry forward your parents’ legacy – one built on love, courage, and service – and you keep that spirit alive every day.
Meghan Markle was pictured without a poppy on during Remembrance weekend
|
GETTYHe concluded by saying: “You inspire me and so many others with your strength. Over Remembrance weekend, I’ll be thinking of you all with so much pride and admiration.”
Meghan Markle sparked controversy over Remembrance weekend as she was spotted at multiple events alongside Harry without a poppy.