Duchess Meghan is inspired by the "unshakeable bond" between servicemen and women.
Duchess Meghan
The Duchess of Sussex - who is expecting a baby with her husband Prince Harry - praised the camaraderie of soldiers as she spoke at the 2018 Invictus Games in Sydney, Australia.
She said: "I'm not sure if many of you know this, but a few years ago, before I met my husband, I had the incredible honor of visiting troops deployed all over the world, from the U.K. to Italy and Afghanistan and several other countries. In traveling to these military bases I was given a very special glimpse into the lives of those who serve our countries, I was able to see the unshakeable bond between servicemen and women on the ground together, but at the same time feel the palpable longing for family and friends while deployed. Once home, the need for that anchor of support from loved ones, especially given how much it accelerates recovery and rehabilitation, is immeasurable. I've been reminded of those memories here. During this year's Games in Sydney I've witnessed the most amazing support networks that surround competitors, and I've had the privilege of meeting several of these family and friends."
And the former 'Suits' actress was "honoured" to join her husband at the event, which he founded four years ago.
She added: "It is such an honour to be here tonight celebrating all of you and supporting my husband in the Invictus Games, which he founded four years ago. In that short span of time, the Games have evolved into an international platform of some of the best athletics and sportsmanship you could ever witness, coupled with the comradery and close net sense of community, which can only be defined as the Invictus spirit. With that said, and on a very personal note, I just wanted to thank all of you for welcoming me into the Invictus family. I am truly so grateful to be a part of this with each and every one of you."
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