Prince Harry Criticized for Wearing Four Medals While Honoring US Servicewoman

Prince Harry Faces Criticism for Medal Display During Soldier of the Year Award Presentation

Prince Harry, the Duke of Sussex, recently faced backlash for his attire while presenting the prestigious “Soldier of the Year” award from his Montecito mansion.

Despite serving in the UK armed forces for a decade, Harry appeared via Zoom to honour US combat medic Sergeant First Class Elizabeth Marks.

During the presentation, viewers quickly noticed the four medals pinned to Harry’s chest: an Afghanistan campaign medal, a Golden Jubilee medal, a Diamond Jubilee medal, and a Platinum Jubilee medal.

While the Afghanistan campaign medal was earned during his military service, the other three were presented to him by Queen Elizabeth II.

Critics accused Harry of attempting to “create an illusion for the American market” and diverting attention from the servicewoman being honoured.

Some labelled the additional medals, particularly the Jubilee ones, “participation medals” and criticised their significance.

The defenders argued that Harry was entitled to wear the Afghanistan campaign medal he had earned.

Harry completed two tours of Afghanistan during his military career, in 2007-2008 and 2012.

Notably, observers pointed out that Harry was not wearing a Coronation medal recently given to him by his father, King Charles.

Royal commentator Richard FitzWilliams described this omission as a deliberate “snub,” suggesting it emphasises Harry’s distancing from the royal family.

The controversy surrounding Harry’s medal display underscores ongoing tensions and scrutiny surrounding his public appearances and interactions with the monarchy.

Prince Harry’s appearance at the award presentation amidst speculation about his relationship with the British royal family.

After retiring from his royal duties in early 2020, Harry and Meghan Markle, his wife, have been pursuing independent ventures in the United States.

However, their decision to distance themselves from the monarchy has increased scrutiny and criticism, especially regarding their public engagements and statements.

Despite criticism, Prince Harry actively supports various charitable and philanthropic endeavours, utilising his platform to raise awareness regarding mental health, veterans’ welfare, and environmental conservation.

However, his actions continue to be closely watched and debated, reflecting the complexities of navigating personal and public responsibilities within royal tradition and modern celebrity culture.