After serving in the Army for 10 years, Prince Harry became invested in the causes, struggles and biggest issues veterans face every day, from the mental health struggles of coming back to the “real world” to their lives dealing with post-combat disabilities. So, not long after being moved by their stories, and the US Warrior Games in 2013, Harry created his biggest passion project to date: The Invictus Games. The Games, which go beyond the annual sporting competition, aims to “celebrate the unconquered human spirit, and shine a spotlight on these men and women who served.”
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This year, the 2023 Invictus Games are already in full swing in Düsseldorf, Germany. During the opening ceremony of the event, which happens between Sept 9 to 16, Harry shared a few words of encouragement to the veteran athletes. “Now, remember that feeling of pride and honor when you first wore your nation’s flag on your uniform? Most of us perhaps remember more its final outing, or the time we hung it up for good,” the Duke of Sussex said. “Am I right in saying for some, it represented a cape? Perhaps a shield, or an escape? For others, an opportunity, a recognition, or a calling? No matter what it meant to you then, or your reasons for signing up, it was always about being of service to others and to your mates.”
“You discovered things about yourself you’d never knew. Skills and abilities you didn’t know that you had. You unlocked your potential and performance. And you understood the power of working as a team. Ultimately, you were part of a purpose larger than yourself, and that feeling felt good,” Harry continued. “And I’m guessing a lot of you in this stadium tonight have felt the absence of that feeling for months, maybe years. Well, not anymore.” Talk about a goosebump moment!
So, in celebration of the incredible event, check out some of the best pictures of Harry at the 2023 Invictus Games below!
Paying Close Attention
Image Credit: Joern Pollex/Getty Images for Invictus Games Düsseldorf 2023 While watching a game of Wheelchair Basketball during day three of the Games, Harry talked to this young fan who was rooting for the United Kingdom. We just love how attentive Harry looks here.
Tuned In
Image Credit: Chris Jackson/Getty Images for the Invictus Games Foundation Also during the Wheelchair Basketball matches, Harry was tuned in and was photographed having this shocked expression. At the time this was taken, Team Ukraine and Team Great Britain were duking it out on the court.
Laughing It Up
Image Credit: Chris Jackson/Getty Images for the Invictus Games Foundation While meeting a beloved service dog on day three, Harry couldn’t help but let loose and laugh it up with their owner.
Dog Break
Image Credit: Chris Jackson/Getty Images for the Invictus Games Foundation In fact, Harry took some adorable dog-petting breaks throughout the games, including this sweet moment as he visited the TRA/Rehabilitation Expo.
Too Cute to Handle
Image Credit: Chris Jackson/Getty Images for the Invictus Games Foundation On day two, Harry’s love for dogs continued as he met a member of Team United Kingdom and their too-cute-to-handle wiener dog. So sweet!
A Medal & a Kiss
Image Credit: Jordan Pettitt/PA Images via Getty Images During day two, Harry took part in the trophy ceremony for the wheelchair rugby finals. In this sweet moment, the royal was seen kissing player Davey Martinez of Team US on the head as he presented the athlete with his medal.
Deep Convo
Image Credit: Chris Jackson/Getty Images for the Invictus Games Foundation There’s something about Harry having deep conversations with his adoring young fans that we just can’t get enough of. It’s too cute!
Mascot Buddy
Image Credit: Jordan Pettitt/PA Images via Getty Images While watching a game of wheelchair rugby on day one of the games, Harry gave a pep talk to Team France’s hilarious chicken mascot.
So Excited
Image Credit: Jordan Pettitt/PA Images via Getty Images Also during the rugby games, Harry showed how excited he was to be there as he cheered and shouted for the players. Loving the enthusiasm!
Veterans’ Salute
Image Credit: Jordan Pettitt/PA Images via Getty Images As he took the stage at the games’ opening ceremony, Harry saluted to the crowd of fellow veterans.
So Proud
Image Credit: Jordan Pettitt/PA Images via Getty Images Before taking the stage for his opening speech, Harry looked mesmerized by the opening ceremony which included a walkabout from all the countries and their athletes competing. This photo shows just how proud he is of all the athletes attending.
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