Prince Harry mocks himself at veteran benefit
Prince Harry poked fun at himself and his advisers during a benefit event for veterans on Monday (06.11.23).
Prince Harry poked fun at himself during a benefit event for veterans on Monday (06.11.23).
The Duke of Sussex made his comedy debut at the 17th Annual Stand Up for Heroes Benefit - which is staged by the Bob Woodruff Foundation and New York Comedy Festival - and was quick to mock his life in the public eye as he gave a speech to those assembled at the event, which is held to support veterans, service members and their families.
He joked to the audience at David Geffen Hall at New York's Lincoln Center: “As someone who never gets scrutinised, I haven't even had to prepare much. But I have been working on this particular act for quite some time. And everyone I know tells me it's perfect. No, these aren't people who just tell me what I want to hear. Oh no."
The 38-year-old royal - who undertook tours of Afghanistan in 2007-2008 and again in 2012 during his own army career - then took a more serious note with his speech as he paid tribute to the "special" military community.
He said: “It's one that shares incredible highs and painful lows.
“It is unique and that is hugely important to society both during active service and after.
"Our community is valued more than you'll ever know. And nights like this are testament to that.”
Harry - who has children Prince Archie, four, and Princess Lilibet, two, with wife Meghan, Duchess of Sussex - told the audience he will always be "immensely grateful" for his fellow veterans and the bond they share.
He said: “I know our experiences and journeys to this point differ, but we are always connected through what we've learned as humans, what we faced as families, and how we've come out stronger because of our ability to listen, to understand and to support one another.
“I am immensely grateful for this community, for the experiences of the past and present and for what you represent and how you show up.
“I salute each and every one of you, my brothers, my sisters, my friends, through respect, understanding and admiration.
"And please remember, if any you feel lost or alone with all this going on, don't forget the power of purpose and upholding the important values you know so well. That always gives you the clarity and company you need.”
