Prince Harry sends heartfelt letter telling bereaved military children they're never alone
In a heartfelt letter, Prince Harry has told bereaved military children how proud the nation is of them and reminds them they're never alone.
The Duke of Sussex wrote to Scotty's Little Soldiers, a charity for children and young people who have experienced a death of a parent who served in the British Armed Forces, ahead of Remembrance weekend.
The letter has become an annual tradition.
Prince Harry wrote: "As Remembrance approaches, I wanted to write and let you know how incredibly proud we all are of you.
"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."
He praised their resilience, saying: "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 Duke has supported the charity since 2017 and became their global ambassador in 2023.
This year marks Scotty's 15th anniversary since it was founded by Nikki Scott, whose husband, Corporal Lee Scott, was killed in Afghanistan.
The charity now supports nearly 800 bereaved military children and young people each year.
In the letter, Prince Harry also shares his own experience in the Armed Forces.
"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."
The Prince signed off the letter by telling the children they inspire him, as well as so many others.
He said: "Over Remembrance weekend, I'll be thinking of you all with so much pride and admiration."
One of the recipients of the letter is 21-year-old Molly Reynolds, whose dad, Sergeant Antony Reynolds, served in the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers and died in 2018.
Molly is a member of Scotty's Council – a group of Scotty's beneficiaries with lived experience who help ensure bereaved military children and young people have a voice.
She said: "Receiving this letter from Prince Harry for Remembrance Day is really special as it reminds us that we are not alone and he understands us, not just as someone who has served but also as someone who was bereaved as a child – so he truly understands what we have been through.
"It is also a reminder that others are remembering and honouring our parents alongside us," Molly added.
Over Remembrance weekend, 100 bereaved military family members from Scotty’s, including 56 children and young people, will come together in London to honour their loved ones who served in the British Armed Forces.
Related topics
Join Our Newsletter
