Prince Harry wears military medals at sunny Montecito mansion to award soldier despite being stripped of titles

PRINCE Harry donated military medals at his sunny Montecito mansion to give an award to a soldier – despite being stripped of his titles.

The Duke of Sussex presented Sergeant First Class Elizabeth Marks with the Soldier of the Year gong at his £12 million home in California.

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In a clip filmed at his back door, Harry hailed American combat medic Marks as a “friend” and “beacon of inspiration.”

Marks, 33, suffered bilateral hip injuries in Iraq before winning five Paralympic medals and four gold medals at the Harry Invictus Games.

Harry recorded the video tribute for an awards ceremony organized by news website Military Times, which Marks attended in person.

The prince wore a suit, red tie and four British Army medals in the sunny clip.

One of the medals was the Operational Service Medal for Afghanistan, which Harry earned as a helicopter pilot in Helmand in 2008.

Harry also showed off his Golden Jubilee, Diamond Jubilee and Platinum Jubilee medals.

He was stripped of his military titles, including Captain General of the Royal Navy, after relinquishing royal duties in 2020.

The prince has also been banned from wearing his ceremonial military uniform because he is no longer a royal.

Prince William and other royals wore morning suits to Prince Philip’s funeral in April 2021 to avoid Harry’s blushes.

But he was allowed, against protocol, to wear his No. 1 Blues and Royals uniform and medals to the late Queen’s vigil at Westminster Hall.

In his speech, Harry told how he met SFC Marks at the Invictus Games in Orlando, Florida, in 2016 – where she won four medals.

He said: “For me, she symbolizes the courage, resilience and determination represented throughout our service community.

“And that’s not just because of his swimming skills. Ellie courageously overcame every obstacle that crossed her path.

“She turned her pain into purpose and led through compassion and willpower, showing others that the impossible is truly possible.

“She suffered injuries as a medical assistant in Iraq – along with countless surgeries and setbacks that would have deterred many.”

SFC Marks was the first woman and first swimmer in the U.S. Army’s athlete program for injured soldiers.

Harry said: “She used her experiences and achievements to inspire and help others on their physical and mental journey in sport.

“This has ensured that those who can’t see a way out are also introduced to the sports medicine that saved her.”

He added: “Ellie – you embody the Invictus spirit through your selfless service.

“You know that sport doesn’t just save lives, it changes them for the better.

“And by finding your own cure, you have helped countless brothers and sisters stay alive.

“Your unwavering commitment serves as a beacon of inspiration, offering hope and setting a powerful example for others to follow.

“I’m honored to call you my friend and I can’t thank you enough for being you – and Mason, your husband, for being so supportive.

He told veterans watching the speech: “Know that your community and, indeed, the international community are grateful.

‘Grateful for all the sacrifices you and your family have made, grateful for your service to your country.

“Thank you for carrying on the important values ​​we’ve learned. Tonight is for you. Thank you for everything you’ve done.”