Prince Harry has honoured World War Two veteran Joseph Hammond with a special gift ahead of his 100th birthday this Saturday.
The Duke of Sussex sent Hammond an Invictus Medal Coin through ambassadors from the Invictus Games, the international sporting event Harry founded for wounded, injured and sick servicemen and women.
The gesture comes as the UK marks the 80th anniversary of VE Day this week. Hammond, a Ghanaian veteran who fought alongside British troops during World War Two, expressed his gratitude for the recognition from the Duke.
The special exchange highlights Prince Harry's continued commitment to veterans' welfare and recognition of military service.
Prince Harry honours WW2 hero while Royal Family mark VE Day without him.
X / Joseph Hammond
Hammond shared news of the honour in a post on X on May 7, just days before his milestone birthday.
"It was a great honour to welcome the @WeAreInvictus team to Ghana, just ahead of my birthday this Saturday!" Hammond wrote. "I was honoured to receive the Invictus Medal Coin from #PrinceHarry."
In a touching exchange, Hammond revealed he had gifted Prince Harry with a copy of his memoir.
The veteran explained this was "in recognition of his unwavering commitment to veterans' welfare."
Princess Kate pictured on VE Day on Monday.
PAHammond first met Prince Harry in 2019 when the Royal Family hosted an event to honour veterans from the British Commonwealth.
During their initial meeting, Hammond was particularly drawn to the Duke's military background.
"This man, especially, Prince Harry, I glued myself to him because he is also a soldier, he's been to Afghanistan, and we spoke about the military, my battalion," Hammond said at the time. "We exchanged ideas. It was wonderful."
Hammond served as a mechanic in Myanmar — then known as Burma — during World War Two. He fought alongside British troops as part of the Commonwealth forces that supported the Allied war effort.
King Charles III and Queen Camilla arrive ahead of the military procession for the 80th anniversary of VE Day.
PAIn 2020, Hammond undertook a challenging 14-mile walk to raise funds for frontline workers during the COVID-19 pandemic.
His efforts at the age of 95 earned him a personal letter from Prince Harry. "Even at '95 years young,' I imagine it was not an easy task," Harry wrote in his letter of praise.
The Duke added: "However, given the service and selflessness you have demonstrated throughout your life, it does not surprise me that you would take on a challenge such as this."
Harry also sent "warmest wishes" from himself and Meghan Markle. He described meeting Hammond as "an honour and a pleasure" and praised him for setting "a fine example to the world."
Harry had served in the British Army in Afghanistan.
PAThis week, the British Royal Family has attended several celebrations marking the 80th anniversary of VE Day.
King Charles, Queen Camilla, Prince William, Princess Kate and their children attended a military procession and aerial flypast on Monday.
Prince George made his royal debut at a tea party for World War Two veterans at Buckingham Palace. The young prince sat beside his father, mirroring William's role as they greeted and thanked veterans.
The celebrations highlight the Royal Family's continued commitment to honouring those who served in World War Two. Hammond's recognition by Prince Harry forms part of this wider commemoration of military service and sacrifice.
