Why It’s Such A Big Deal That Prince Harry Wore His Military Uniform To Queen’s Vigil

Topline

Prince Harry wore his military uniform at a vigil on Saturday for his late grandmother, Queen Elizabeth—his first appearance in military attire in more than two years, and a potential sign the Duke and Duchess of Sussex could be patching their relationship with the Royal Family—after it was earlier announced he would not be in traditional garb.

Key Facts

Prince Harry’s father, King Charles III granted the Duke of Sussex special permission to wear military uniform at the vigil in Westminster Hall where the queen lies in state (People magazine reported it was “at the King’s request”).

Prince Harry had been wearing civilian clothing during public outings since the queen’s death last week, following a Buckingham Palace announcement on dress code this week that reserves military garb for working royals only, with a spokesperson telling Town & Country earlier in the week Harry would wear a morning suit for the processions, despite having served in Afghanistan.

Prince Harry and his wife, Meghan Markle, have been the objects of intense scrutiny this week, with reports of being snubbed by members of the Royal Family who appeared to refuse to shake her hand, and wild social media posts accusing her of wearing a microphone as she greeted mourners at Windsor Castle.

Harry is not expected to wear military uniform at any other ceremony this week, including the queen’s funeral on Monday, CNN reported.

Buckingham Palace officials told CNN Harry’s uncle, Prince Andrew—who was stripped of his royal titles following sexual abuse allegations—was also given permission to wear military attire at a vigil Friday night as a sign of respect to the queen.

With the death of Queen Elizabeth, Harry is now fourth in line to the throne, behind his brother, Prince William, and his three children.

Key Background

It comes more than two years after Harry and Markle announced their plans to “step back as senior members” of the Royal Family with an Instagram post in January 2020, saying they would divide their time between the United Kingdom and the United States, and become financially independent. Buckingham Palace officials revoked Harry’s titles in February 2021, while allowing Harry and Markle to remain Duke and Duchess of Sussex, stating “in stepping away from the work of the Royal Family, it is not possible to continue with the responsibilities and duties that come with a life of public service.” Harry had served two tours in Afghanistan as a forward air controller and pilot with the British Army Air Corps between 2007-2008 and 2012-2013. He has been living outside Santa Barbara, California, with Markle for the past two years, making occasional appearances with the Royal Family, but making more headlines for their joint ventures outside the monarchy.

Tangent

King Charles also granted special permission to Prince Andrew—who was stripped of his titles and “His Royal Highness” status after facing sexual assault allegations in January.

Further Reading

Prince Harry to wear military uniform at vigil for the Queen (The Guardian)

Princes William and Harry lead somber vigil by Queen’s coffin (CNN)

William and Harry lead historic coffin vigil (BBC)

Queen Elizabeth’s Coffin Leaves Scotland’s Balmoral Castle—Here’s How She’ll Get To London (Forbes)

William Declared Prince Of Wales—Here Are Royal Title Changes In The Wake Of Queen Elizabeth’s Death (Forbes)