Prince Harry is reportedly “deeply saddened” after his request to have a wreath laid out at the London Cenotaph on his behalf for Remembrance Day today was refused by Buckingham Palace.

The Times reported that Harry, who spent ten years serving in the military, made this personal request to Buckingham Palace. However, his request was refused because he stepped down from senior royal duties back in March. Harry was especially “deeply saddened” by the fact that the Queen is believed not to have been told about the request and the refusal.

Harry talked about the importance of Remembrance Day on a military podcast that aired on Sunday, describing the day as “a moment for respect and for hope.”

“The act of remembering, of remembrance, is a profound act of honor,” Harry said. “It’s how we preserve the legacies of entire generations and show our gratitude for the sacrifices they made in order for us to be able to live the lives we live today.”

Harry went on to talk about his own experiences and to say that he cherishes his relationship with veterans, describing coming together as “like meeting an old mate.”

“I wear the poppy to recognize all those who have served; the soldiers I knew, as well as those I didn’t,” he said. “The soldiers who were by my side in Afghanistan, those who had their lives changed forever, and those that didn’t come home.’

“I wear it to celebrate the bravery and determination of all our veterans, and their loved ones, especially those in our Invictus family,” he added. “These are the people and moments I remember when I salute, when I stand at attention and when I lay a wreath at the Cenotaph.”

Harry then talked about his two tours that he served in Afghanistan.

“When I get asked about this period of my life I draw from memories, I draw from what I remember and who I remember,” Harry said. “Like the first time we were shot at and who I was with, the casualties we saw, and those we saved. And the first medivac we escorted out of contact in a race against time. Once served always serving, no matter what.”

“Being able to wear my uniform, being able to stand up in service of one’s country, these are amongst the greatest honors there are in life,” he continued. “To me, the uniform is a symbol of something much bigger, it’s symbolic of our commitment to protecting our country, as well as protecting our values. These values are put in action through service, and service is what happens in the quiet and in the chaos.”

This piece originally appeared in UpliftingToday.com and is used by permission.

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