**Prince Harry's Heartfelt Letter to Bereaved Military Families**

Prince Harry has penned a touching letter to children from bereaved military families ahead of Remembrance weekend. The Duke of Sussex, currently in Canada visiting veterans in Toronto, expressed admiration for the resilience of youngsters who have lost a parent in the Armed Forces. His correspondence, which has become an annual tradition, is directed to those supported by the Norfolk-based charity Scotty's Little Soldiers.

In his letter, Harry reflected on the camaraderie he experienced during his military service. He wrote, "I often think back to my own time in the military; the friendships, the laughs, and the sense that no matter what, someone’s got your back. That same spirit lives in all of you." He praised the families for their ability to remember their loved ones while continuing to find joy in life, stating, "Every time I see what Scotty’s families do – the way you remember your loved ones while still finding joy and living life to the fullest – I’m reminded of just how strong and inspiring you all are. Your mums and dads would be so proud of you. We all are."

This year, 100 bereaved family members from Scotty’s, including 56 children and young people from 38 families, will participate in the Remembrance Sunday parade at the Cenotaph. The youngest participant is just eight years old. Harry noted, "Remembrance is such a powerful moment for all of us. It’s a chance for the whole country to pause and come together to say thank you to those who served – and to the families who love them, because when one person serves, the whole family serves. You play a really special part in that."

He expressed pride in the representation of Scotty’s at the Festival of Remembrance and the Cenotaph Parade, highlighting the significance of their participation. "When you march, you’re showing the world what it means to remember with love and pride," he added.

Harry reassured the children that they are not alone in their feelings during this emotional time. He wrote, "As Remembrance approaches, I wanted to write and let you know how incredibly proud we all are of you. This time of year can bring a lot of emotions – pride, love, and sometimes sadness – as you remember your parent or loved one who served our country. Please know you’re not alone in that. You’ve got each other, and a whole community of friends and family who understand what this time means and who are standing right beside you, myself included."

Nikki Scott, who founded Scotty’s Little Soldiers 15 years ago after the death of her husband, Corporal Lee Scott, in Afghanistan, noted the importance of Harry’s message. She said, "This weekend is always deeply emotional for our families, but it’s also a time for pride and connection. Knowing that Prince Harry – and the country – are standing alongside them means the world."

Molly Reynolds, 21, whose father, Sergeant Antony Reynolds, served in the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers and died in 2018, shared her sentiments about receiving the letter. She stated, "Receiving this letter from Prince Harry for Remembrance Day is really special."

The letter serves as a reminder of the ongoing support for bereaved families and the importance of remembrance in honouring those who have served in the military.