Meghan Markle took a moment this Remembrance Day to honour those who have served, sharing a touching Instagram tribute to veterans around the world.
Her post featured a dramatic clip of Prince Harry in Afghanistan in 2013, sprinting toward a helicopter during a television interview.
Accompanying the clip, Meghan wrote: “As my husband says, ‘Once served. Always serving.’
Thank you to all who served, sacrificed, and continue to serve. Honoring you on Veterans Day. And every day.”
From Sunnybrook Hospital to Montecito: A Visual Tribute
Alongside the video, Meghan also shared a photo of Harry visiting Sunnybrook Hospital’s Veterans Centre in Toronto just last week. It was a subtle but meaningful reminder of their ongoing commitment to military families, even while living 5,500 miles away in Montecito, California.
The post came after reports that Meghan did not wear a poppy at Kris Jenner’s 70th birthday celebration during the Remembrance weekend — a decision that some noticed, given the symbolic nature of the commemorative symbol.
Why Meghan Didn’t Wear a Poppy at the Party
Sources close to Meghan explained that the poppies, widely available in Commonwealth countries, are not as easily accessible in the United States.
While Harry pinned a poppy to his tuxedo during the party — obtained after donating to the appeal during his recent Canadian visit — Meghan opted to pay tribute online instead.
The Duchess has previously been seen wearing a poppy at several public events, including alongside Harry on Remembrance Day in the UK, during visits to US Navy SEALs in San Diego, and in a 2024 video message.
Harry Reflects on His British Service and Veteran Communities
Prince Harry, meanwhile, shared his own reflections on Remembrance Day in a 647-word essay titled The Bond, The Banter, The Bravery: What It Means To Be British.
He paid tribute to the humour, camaraderie, and resilience that he associates with his British identity and military service.
Harry reflected on his time serving in Afghanistan, the privilege of working alongside soldiers from all corners of the UK, and the challenges veterans face after leaving the uniform behind.
He emphasised the importance of remembering both the fallen and the living, urging people to connect with veterans in their communities — even for a simple cuppa or pint — to honour their service.
Remembrance as a Lifelong Commitment
In his essay, the Duke described Remembrance Day not as a single minute of silence, but as “a call to collective responsibility.”
He highlighted the courage of children of fallen soldiers, the bravery displayed at the Invictus Games, and the ongoing impact of war on both soldiers and their families.
Harry concluded with a plea for continuous empathy: “Remembrance isn’t confined to one weekend in November.
It’s a lifelong commitment to empathy, gratitude, and action; to be kinder, more united, and braver in protecting what those before us fought to preserve.”
Social Media and Public Perception
While Meghan’s Instagram post offered a reflective, heartfelt tribute, some observers had previously scrutinised her choice of attire at the high-profile Jenner party.
Experts and royal commentators noted that appearing without a poppy at such a glamorous, US-based event might seem like a break from tradition, but sources stressed that her intentions were genuine, with access to the symbols simply limited in America.
Despite the minor controversy, Meghan and Harry’s shared efforts to honour veterans — whether in person or online — underscore their ongoing dedication to military families and the lessons of service.
A Message for Everyone This Remembrance Weekend
The Sussexes’ posts remind followers that Remembrance Day extends beyond ceremony and commemoration.
Harry’s essay and Meghan’s tribute highlight the value of gratitude, personal engagement, and recognition of veterans’ sacrifices.
Whether through a handshake, a conversation, or a simple acknowledgment, Meghan and Harry encourage everyone to honour the living and the fallen — ensuring that the spirit of service is remembered, today and every day.