Prince Harry has delivered a video message to mark Germany’s inaugural Veteran’s Day, describing it as a “profound privilege” to address the nation on this “sacred day”.
The Duke of Sussex began his speech in German, greeting viewers with “Guten Tag Deutschland” before switching to English.
During the recording, Harry wore several ceremonial medals including the Afghan Campaign medal, Golden Jubilee medal, Diamond Jubilee medal and Platinum Jubilee medal.
As a non-working royal, he is prohibited from wearing military uniform at official state occasions, a restriction that also applied when he attended the Queen’s funeral procession.
Prince Harry delivered an address to mark the first Veteran’s Day in Germany
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Harry recalled his visit to Germany for the Invictus Games in Düsseldorf in 2023, where he joined more than 2,500 participants, including veterans and injured service personnel.
He said: “It is a profound privilege to be asked by your defence minister to deliver a message to you on this sacred Veterans Day.
“My last visit to your remarkable country was to Düsseldorf two years ago for the Invictus Games, and it remains etched in my memory.
“The warmth, the enthusiasm, and the unwavering support shown by the German people for our global community of wounded service personnel was truly humbling.
“You certainly delivered on your promise to create a home for respect.”
“That spirit of camaraderie, forged on the sports field, mirrors the unbreakable bond that connects veterans of all nations.
“We understand each other, regardless of flag or uniform, bound by shared experiences and an enduring commitment to service.”
The Duke continued: “Veterans are more than warriors—they are leaders.
“Living testaments to resilience and moral courage, they understand that loyalty must never lie with power alone, but with the people. With truth.”
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The Duke delivered the opening and closing remarks of his address in German
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Harry reflected on the purpose of military service, saying: “As someone who has worn the uniform and stood shoulder to shoulder with brothers-and sisters-in-arms from across the world—including many of you—I know that the weight of service is not carried lightly.
“We serve not to glorify war, but to protect peace.
“Not to follow a single voice, but to uphold a collective oath—to country, to people, and to the principles that bind us together as free nations.”
He continued by praising Germany’s transformation, saying: “Germany has shown the world how memory, accountability, and unity can be turned into strength.
“In these turbulent times, your role in safeguarding peace and stability in Europe has never been more critical.”
Concluding his message, Harry thanked the Bundeswehr directly: “To the brave men and women of the Bundeswehr – a heartfelt thank you for your steadfast service to your country, to your people and to one another.
“Today is also a celebration of you, the values you stand for, the oath you took and the great country you stand to protect.
“Today, let us renew our commitment—together—to protect the freedoms that define who we are, to serve each other for peace, for dignity and for the enduring promise of democracy.”
Harry wore a simple suit with his medals as he is forbidden from wearing uniform after stepping down as a working royal
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He ended with “Vielen dank und einen schonen tag,” translating to ‘warm thanks and best wishes for the day ahead’.
The Duke of Sussex served in the Army for a decade, beginning his military career in 2004 and entering the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst in May 2005.
After completing 44 weeks of Officer Cadet training, he was commissioned as an Army officer in April 2006 and joined the Blues and Royals.
Harry undertook two tours of Afghanistan and qualified as an Apache helicopter gunship Commander, rising to the rank of Captain.
He revealed in his memoir that he flew six missions during his second tour.
His military service concluded in June 2015 following a secondment to the Australian military.
