Many royal observers believe this choice was not merely ceremonial, but a hidden message to his family, particularly his brother, Prince William, and his father, King Charles III
Prince Harry spoke volumes with a poignant decision at a high-profile event.
During his appearance at St Paul’s Cathedral to mark the 10th anniversary of the Invictus Games earlier this year, Prince Harry chose to wear his Knight Commander of the Royal Victorian Order Neck Order and Star, a symbol of his service to the monarchy.
Many royal observers believe this choice was not merely ceremonial, but a hidden message to his family, particularly his brother, Prince William, and his father, King Charles III. The KCVO, bestowed upon Harry by Queen Elizabeth II in 2015, is a prestigious honour, awarded for personal service to the monarch.
Prince Harry may have subtly reminded his family of his past loyalty and dedication to the Crown, despite their strained relationships now. Royal expert Tom Quinn suggests that the decision to wear the KCVO at this particular event could be seen as an act of defiance, symbolising Harry’s continued connection to the monarchy, even as other aspects of his royal life have been taken away.
Quinn, previously speaking to The Mirror, explained, “Harry was seen wearing his Knight Commander of the Royal Victorian Order medal at St Paul’s Cathedral for the Invictus service. The medal was given to Harry in 2015 by his late grandmother Elizabeth II for ‘services to the monarchy’.”
“Wearing this was Harry’s way of reminding his family that his grandmother valued his contribution, even if his father and brother do not. Wearing the KCVO neck and star was also Harry’s way of pointing out that he’s not the bad boy he’s portrayed as being by his father and brother. It’s Harry’s way of saying he still supports the monarchy despite the way he feels he has been treated. Perhaps more importantly, wearing the medal is Harry’s way of saying ‘You’ve taken everything else from me, but you can’t take this!’,” he added.
The Duke of Sussex also wore other medals, including his Afghanistan Service Medal and the Jubilee medals for the Queen’s Golden, Diamond, and Platinum anniversaries. These choices further highlighted his military service and longstanding association with royal traditions.
As Prince Harry continues to navigate his complex relationship with the royal family, these subtle actions—such as his choice of attire—may offer glimpses into his feelings and the messages he wishes to send to those closest to him. Whether consciously or not, his appearance at St Paul’s Cathedral served as a reminder that, despite the current rift, his connection to the royal family and its history remains deeply ingrained.
Prince Harry’s medals got attention after following news that King Charles had not arranged a meeting with his son during Harry’s UK visit, due to a “full programme.” A representative for the Duke of Sussex clarified the situation, stating, “In response to the many inquiries and continued speculation on whether or not the duke will meet with his father while in the UK this week, it unfortunately will not be possible due to His Majesty’s full programme. The duke of course is understanding of his father’s diary of commitments and various other priorities and hopes to see him soon.”
It then emerged, however, that Charles reportedly offered Harry a place to stay in a royal residence but he turned it down.
