Prince Harry Honors His Grandfather Prince Philip on VJ Day's 80th Anniversary in a Discreet Manner
In a heartfelt gesture, Prince Harry paid tribute to his late grandfather, Prince Philip, during the commemorative services for the 80th anniversary of VJ Day on August 15. The Duke of Sussex privately arranged for a letter and a wreath to be left after the event concluded, to honour his grandfather who served in the Pacific campaign during World War II.
Prince Philip, who passed away in 2021 at the age of 99, was a decorated naval officer. He served in the Royal Navy during World War II and saw active combat in several theaters, including the Pacific. In September 1945, he was present at Tokyo Bay during the formal surrender.
In his letter, Prince Harry shared thoughts about the shared hardships, bonds forged, and the legacy the veterans leave. He also acknowledged the veterans present at the commemorative services, expressing his gratitude for their service. According to GB News, Prince Harry wrote that the anniversary carried an added layer of meaning for him.
Prince Harry's late grandfather served on HMS Whelp. The letter was left after the Duke of Sussex's gesture was done, to avoid distracting from official royal commemorations. It is not known if Prince Harry secretly showed anything during the memorial services before King Charles and Queen Camilla departed.
Prince Harry and his wife, Rachel King, who is a news writer at Town & Country, have been known to be close. Rachel King, who lived in New York with her wife, daughter, and a labradoodle, has previously had her work covering travel and lifestyle featured in various publications such as Forbes, Observer, Robb Report, Cruise Critic, and Cool Hunting.
In his funeral message, Prince Harry thanked his grandfather for his service, dedication to the Queen, and for always being himself. Prince Harry also penned a personal message for his grandfather at his funeral.
The services honoured 33 British veterans between the ages of 96 and 105 who served in Asia and the Pacific during World War II. Their service and sacrifice were remembered and celebrated during the commemorative events.
