Prince Harry delivered a heartfelt speech at the closing ceremony of the 2025 Invictus Games in Vancouver, expressing gratitude and making a significant promise to veterans.
A Tearful Tribute to Veterans
At the Rogers Arena in Vancouver, Prince Harry addressed the audience with deep emotion, beginning his speech by singing the opening bars of “O Canada” and stating, “You’ve only gone and done it again. Did we all have fun?”
He extended his appreciation to various groups, saying, “To our Invictus wives, husbands, girlfriends, boyfriends, kids, grandparents and friends, if you can, please stand and be recognized—we salute you.” He also honored those lost to battle or suicide: “To our comrades, friends or loved ones who we lost to battle or to suicide, tonight we honor you too.”
Addressing participants who faced challenges in attending the Games, Harry remarked, “To those of you whose journey to these Games has been difficult and uncertain, who questioned whether you would even make it here today, thank you for showing us what is possible.” He emphasized the broader impact of their resilience: “In the pursuit of saving yourselves, you have also saved all of us. Those who love you and those who don’t even know you.”
A Promise for the Future
Reflecting on the ongoing need for the Invictus Games, Prince Harry stated, “It’s because of the strength you give to the world. The power of your example. Your duty to one another.” He acknowledged the unity among participants: “You may swear allegiance to different flags, but you stand united in your decency, your compassion, and your spirit of service.”
He assured them of their preparedness for future challenges: “Now I can’t stand before you and promise there won’t be challenging times ahead. But I promise you, you’re better equipped now than you were before.” He added, “You’ve reclaimed what was lost. Restored what was broken. Achieved the impossible.”
Concluding his speech, Harry made a heartfelt commitment: “While I never expected that we would still be here in 2025, from one soldier to another, I also promise you this—So long as our brothers and sisters are striving to heal and grow, the Games will go on.” He emphasized the ongoing mission: “So long as there are those around the world who view you with sympathy, rather than admiration and respect, the Games will go on.” He ended with a rallying call: “Bring on Invictus Games. Birmingham 2027. You have permission to party.”
Support from Meghan Markle
Although Meghan Markle had returned to California to care for their children, she continued to support Prince Harry from afar. She shared a clip of the cheering crowd on her Instagram Stories, expressing her pride with the message, “So proud of you.”
During the ceremony, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau praised Prince Harry’s dedication, stating, “As someone that you roped in early on in my time as Prime Minister, I can testify to the energy, the dedication, the commitment this man has to you and to this ideal.” This tribute brought Harry to the verge of tears, highlighting the strong bond between the two leaders.
Looking Ahead
The 2025 Invictus Games marked a significant chapter in celebrating the resilience and unity of service members and veterans. With the next Games scheduled for Birmingham in 2027, the Invictus spirit continues to inspire and uplift communities worldwide.
