“Navigating Grief Doesn’t Leave You”: Prince Harry Pens Moving Letter to Bereaved Military Families Ahead of Remembrance Weekend

A Message Reaching Grieving Adults for the First Time

• Universal Experience: Writing to both long-time and newer members, Harry reflected on the enduring nature of grief:

  “Whether you’re a young person who has been part of Scotty’s Little Soldiers for years, or someone older who is just now discovering this community under the new name Scotty’s, I’m glad you found us. Navigating the grief of losing a loved one doesn’t leave you, no matter how old you are. Know that you are not alone, as this is one of the most universal experiences of being human. Scotty’s will be with you every step of the way.”

• Military Camaraderie: Drawing on his decade of service and two operational tours in Afghanistan, the Duke drew a parallel between battlefield trust and bereavement support:

  “When I was in the British Army, knowing someone had your back meant everything. I recognise that same spirit at Scotty’s, where the people around you will understand without you having to explain. They just get it, and that alone brings comfort and relief.”

Enduring Ties to Scotty’s

• Hands-On Involvement: The Duke’s relationship with the group has extended well beyond formal patronages. In July 2026, he joined member families at their summer gathering at a castle in the English Midlands, joining in on outdoor activities, goat yoga, and water balloon battles on an obstacle course.
• Founder’s Perspective: Founder Nikki Scott BEM—who established the charity in 2010 following the death of her husband, Corporal Lee Scott, in Afghanistan—underscored the significance of Harry’s ongoing outreach:

  “His Remembrance letter has become something our children and young people look forward to receiving each year, and it feels particularly special that this year his message will reach our wider Scotty’s community too… Over the years we have learnt so much about the wider impact of military bereavement and the different ways it can affect people.”

• Adult Representation: Among those welcoming the expanded outreach was Laura Robbins MBE, Chair of the RAF Widows Association and member of Scotty’s Adult Advisory Board, whose husband, Squadron Leader Nick Robbins, died in 2014. She noted that including adults alongside children recognizes that bereavement affects the whole family unit over a lifetime.

Representation at the Cenotaph

• Marching in London: A contingent of 100 members of the Scotty’s community—including 55 bereaved children and young people wearing their signature black-and-yellow scarves—gathered in the capital to attend the Festival of Remembrance and take part in the veteran march-past on Whitehall following the two-minute silence at the Cenotaph.
• Symbolic Colors: The yellow and black scarves worn by members honor the squadron colors of the 2nd Royal Tank Regiment, commemorating Corporal Lee Scott and all fallen British service personnel.