Harry hails bereaved military children's strength

Harry's letter to youngsters supported by Scotty's has become an annual tradition

The Duke of Sussex has told bereaved military children he is inspired by their strength in a heartfelt letter ahead of Remembrance weekend.

Harry made the comment in his annual letter to Scotty's Little Soldiers, a charity based in King's Lynn, Norfolk.

"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," the duke told them in a personal piece which has become an annual tradition.

"That same spirit lives in all of you."

Former soldier Harry added: "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."

Dozens of children took park in the Cenotaph Parade in November 2024

One hundred bereaved family members from Scotty's, including 56 children and young people from 38 families, will march to the Cenotaph in the Remembrance Sunday parade to honour their loved ones who served in the British Armed Forces, with the youngest participant just eight years old.

Harry said the group played a "really special part" in the Remembrance weekend.

"When you march, you're showing the world what it means to remember with love and pride."

The duke, who carried out two frontline tours to Afghanistan, is a long-time supporter of and global ambassador to the organisation, which helps children and young people who have experienced the death of a parent who served in the forces.

"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," he continued.

"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."

Nikki Scott founded Scotty's 15 years ago, following the death of her husband, Corporal Lee Scott, in Afghanistan in 2009.

Its members wear distinctive yellow and black striped scarves to match the colours of Cpl Scott's 2nd Royal Tank Regiment.

Nikki said the duke's words captured what the charity was about: "This weekend is always deeply emotional for our families, but it's also a time for pride and connection.

"Knowing that Prince Harry - and the country - are standing alongside them means the world."