Duke of Sussex honors 100-year-old WWII veteran in heartfelt video message
Prince Harry has released an emotional video message paying tribute to
Ghanaian World War II veteran Private Joseph Hammond, just days after
receiving troubling news linked to one of his African charities.
In the video, shared by Sir Hammond on Instagram, the Duke of Sussex warmly
wished the veteran a happy 100th birthday, calling him a true hero and
praising his lifelong service.
“Happy birthday Hammond of Ghana, happy birthday sir,” Harry said. “Wishing
you a very, very happy 100th birthday. The Invictus delegation has just
returned from Ghana and says that you are in fine spirits. I am very happy to
hear that.”
The Duke continued by acknowledging Hammond’s dedication both in uniform and
as a veteran, and expressed excitement over the prospect of Ghana joining the
Invictus Games community.
“I truly hope we will be able to celebrate together once Ghana joins the
Invictus community,” he added. “I hope to see you soon. Happy birthday sir and
take care.”
In response, Sir Hammond expressed his gratitude for the Duke’s kind words and
highlighted the growing partnership between his foundation and the Invictus
Games. “It is a true honour for the Joseph Ashitey Hammond Foundation to
partner with @weareinvictusgames to establish not just a centre, but one of
the very best here in Africa,” he wrote.
Harry’s appearance comes shortly after African Parks—a conservation charity
with which he is closely associated—admitted that some of its park rangers
committed human rights abuses in the Republic of the Congo, casting a shadow
over his charitable efforts on the continent.
