Prince Harry's Military Friends Come to His Defense

Chelsey Sanchez

From Harper's BAZAAR

  • Following their announcement to step back as senior members of the royal family, Prince Harry and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, have received increasing backlash from those who believe they are disrespecting the monarchy.

  • However, some of those who served in the military with the Duke of Sussex have come to his defense.

Since Prince Harry and Duchess Meghan announced their intentions to step back as senior members of the royal family last week, the public has had mixed reactions to the news. Some, however, are firmly backing the duke and duchess on their decision—and aren't afraid to let the world know.

Those who knew and served with Harry in the military have increasingly taken to social media to vocalize their support. The Duke of Sussex served in the armed forces for 10 years, which included two tours to Afghanistan with the British Army, before ending duties in 2015.

Former British Special Forces soldier Dean Stott wrote, "The Duke of Sussex has and will continue to hold the utmost respect from the entire military community for his service both in Uniform and out. Say what you want about the current situation but I defy anyone to say this man does not deserve the full respect awarded to a soldier."

Another veteran posted a photo of him with the duke, writing, "I personally served with Harry in Afghan 2012/13 and think hes a top bloke, hes done amazing things with the INVICTUS games, supporting wounded and injured soldiers so we need to do the same for him. Get behind him when he needs our country and back him in whatever he chooses."

David Wiseman, who participated in the 2016 Invictus Games according to his Twitter profile, also came to Harry's defense.

"Prince Harry has served this country in & out of uniform," he wrote. "Operated in AFG on the ground & in the air. Been a champion of the Armed Forces Community for many years. His work has supported thousands & inspired millions. Please remember this when commenting on duty. #PrinceHarry"

Former Royal Marines commando JJ Chalmers pointed to Harry's work on mental health awareness. "#PrinceHarry served long before he was in uniform," Chalmers wrote. "And since, few have done more to champion the #ArmedForces Community or have done more to progress the open discussion of #MentalHealth. I’m greatful for his service and won’t forget what he’s done for me & thousands of others."

Veteran Micky Yule had a few cheeky, but ultimately supportive, comments for the duke. "He might have skinny arms," he wrote, "but the Boss is a top lad. I'll always have the upmost respect for him. Let people get on with there life's. #PrinceHarry and once you've done 2 tours of Afghan come back to me."

Their tweets come amid stories published by The Sun and Daily Mail that had former military members denounce Harry and Meghan's decision.

You Might Also Like