Prince Harry undertook a series of engagements in Washington D.C. in the days leading up to his family's planned relocation to the United Kingdom. The Duke of Sussex visited Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Arlington National Cemetery, The Independence Fund, and the Washington VA Medical Center.
At Walter Reed, Harry spent time with service members, nurses, and doctors. He also hosted a roundtable discussion with wounded veterans and explored how sports medicine is being used to help service members with severe injuries. This visit aligns with Harry's founding of the Invictus Games in 2014, a platform for injured, ill, and wounded military personnel.
Following his visit to Walter Reed, Prince Harry proceeded to Arlington National Cemetery. There, he observed the Changing of the Guard ceremony and placed a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, a memorial for unidentified U.S. service members. He also met with Gold Star families and visited their graves.
Prince Harry also joined a roundtable hosted by the military charity The Independence Fund. The discussion focused on the challenges faced by wounded troops and veterans transitioning to civilian life. His final stop was the Washington VA Medical Center, where he toured the Community Living Center and spoke with elderly veteran residents.
These visits occurred as news emerged that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are preparing to move their family back to the UK for an extended period. Their children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, are scheduled to begin school in Britain in September. This move marks a significant shift for the family, who have resided primarily in California since stepping back as senior royals in March 2020. The couple will retain their homes in California and Portugal and are not expected to resume working royal duties.
Harry's visit to Arlington National Cemetery echoes a similar trip made by his father, King Charles, and Queen Camilla in late April. During their American tour, the King and Queen visited the cemetery as a gesture of the strong military alliance between the U.S. and the UK. Prince Harry's presence at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier continues this tradition.