Prince Harry’s private tribute on the 80th anniversary of Victory over Japan Day has ignited fresh controversy, with critics branding his gesture a calculated move to reclaim the spotlight.
Prince Harry’s Tribute at the Burma Star Memorial
The Duke of Sussex, 40, arranged for a letter and wreath to be laid at the Burma Star Memorial shortly after King Charles III and Queen Camilla departed from the official service. In his note, Harry paid homage to the “Forgotten Army” and honored his grandfather, Prince Philip, for his service in the Pacific campaign during World War II.
While some praised the act as a heartfelt nod to history and family, others viewed the timing as intentional and provocative.
Outrage Over “PR Tactics”
On The Vintage View, host Shauna delivered a scathing critique of Harry’s tribute, accusing him of using the solemn day for personal publicity.
“How dare he use VJ Day for press releases at the ready for yet another cynical PR stunt?” she said, adding that the moment was especially painful given her son’s grandfather fought in New Guinea.
Her frustration extended beyond Harry himself, as she criticized media outlets like the Daily Mail, Yahoo News, and Page Six for publishing favorable coverage with headlines such as “Prince Harry’s secret tribute” and “a painful reminder of the cost of what he left behind.”
Shauna demanded accountability, stating: “When is action going to be taken to reign him in? The monarchy isn’t one family’s plaything, it’s an institution that belongs to us all.”
Divided Opinions Among Historians and Commentators
Not all responses to Harry’s gesture were negative. Historian Dr. Tessa Dunlop defended the tribute, calling it “a quiet reminder” of the duties Harry once carried as a working royal.
She emphasized that Harry has not forgotten his responsibilities toward veterans and the military community, “even if his own family seems to have forgotten him.”
Meanwhile, others on social media and commentary platforms dismissed the positive takes as “vomit-worthy,” reflecting how polarizing Prince Harry’s actions remain.
A Gesture That Divided Public Opinion
The controversy underscores the ongoing rift between Prince Harry and the Royal Family, as well as the scrutiny surrounding his public appearances since stepping back from royal duties in 2020. What was intended as a tribute to war veterans and his late grandfather has instead become a flashpoint in the ongoing debate about Harry’s role outside the monarchy.
