Prince Harry's VJ Day letter that was 'left discreetly by friend after King Charles' appearance at service'
Harry paid tribute to his late grandfather
Prince Harry reportedly paid a heartfelt tribute to his late grandfather, Prince Philip, in a letter commemorating the 80th anniversary of VJ Day.
However, the Duke of Sussex, 40, had the letter placed quietly at the National Memorial Arboretum after the official service had concluded on Friday.
Following Friday’s service at the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire, attended by King Charles, Queen Camilla, and veterans of the Second World War, Prince Harry’s message was reportedly placed discreetly at the Burma Star Memorial.
As reported by GB News, Harry asked a close friend to lay the letter and a wreath after Their Majesties had departed. He reportedly wanted to avoid detracting from the official ceremony.
Prince Harry writes VJ Day letter
In the personal letter, Harry honoured the “Forgotten Army”. He also reflected on the legacy of his grandfather, the late Prince Philip, who served in the Pacific campaign.
“For me, this anniversary carries an added layer of meaning,” Harry wrote in the letter, obtained by GB News. “My late grandfather, Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, served in the Pacific campaign. He spoke with quiet humility about those years. But I know how deeply he respected all who stood beside him in that theatre of war. Today, as I think of him, I think also of each of you, of the shared hardships, the bonds forged, and the legacy you leave.”
Harry went on to thank the veterans directly.
For me, this anniversary carries an added layer of meaning.
He wrote: “Your service in the jungles and mountains of Burma and beyond was marked by grit, unity, and sacrifice. I am humbled by your example, proud of your service and dedication, and profoundly grateful for what you endured. With the deepest respect, thank you.”
He signed the note simply: “Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex.”
Earlier that same day, King Charles, 76, delivered a public tribute to mark the 80th anniversary of VJ Day, the day that Japan surrendered in World War II in 1945, effectively bringing the war to an end.
The king recalled his grandfather King George VI’s 1945 broadcast and praised his great-uncle Lord Mountbatten.
Prince Harry and King Charles ‘rift’
Although Harry did not attend the service in person, his gesture signals his continued respect for military service.
His decision to place the letter discreetly through a friend may also showcase a desire to honour the moment without reigniting tensions.
It’s also worth noting Harry’s military legacy. The Duke of Sussex served for 10 years in the British Army, completing two tours in Afghanistan.
He went on to found the Invictus Games in 2014, a global event for wounded and recovering servicemen and women.
The next Invictus Games will take place in Birmingham in 2027, and reports suggest Harry has extended an invitation to King Charles. Whether that leads to reconciliation remains to be seen.
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