Prince Harry Calls for Better Use of Veterans' Skills in Civilian Workforce

Prince Harry met with U.S. veterans, defense officials, military spouses, and nonprofit leaders in Washington on Wednesday evening, urging communities to do more to apply the skills of service members when they return to civilian life.

During an 80-minute roundtable organized by The Independence Fund, a nonprofit supporting critically wounded service members, the Duke of Sussex said, "The world needs more heroes... It's not about creating more heroes because they already live among us. It's about being able to really value their expertise, their experiences."

Harry, who served 10 years in the British Army, hinted at an upcoming "commercial" solution that "really values those who served rather than expect them to volunteer." He praised the latest generation of veterans for their interest in "purpose" and "service after service," highlighting their communication skills, moral leadership, and ability to work under high stress. However, he noted in an interview that these skills are "not being transitioned over within the civilian world."

Veterans at the event shared personal stories, including the importance of exercise in rehabilitation. Retired Marine Corporal Garrett J. Carnes, who lost both legs, credited Jiu-Jitsu for his recovery. Jason Wheeler, a Navy and Army veteran, became emotional as he recounted difficulties getting military benefits to cover surgery and a humiliating experience crawling off a plane with his service dog. He said he was told he would never walk again but has since walked over 1,000 feet, adding, "I will not stop the fight. I will not quit."

Others called for better mental health services and improved veterans' health centers in smaller towns. Sarah Verardo, CEO of The Independence Fund, noted Harry's impact on patients at Walter Reed, where some veterans who felt too injured for the Invictus Games left standing "taller and stronger" after his encouragement.

Earlier Wednesday, Harry visited Arlington National Cemetery and Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. He did not address reports of his planned extended stay in the UK with his family, declining to comment.

Jane Horton, a senior defense adviser and Gold Star wife, praised Harry for turning "pain into purpose" and "pain into service," saying it resonated with the community. Harry also spoke about the need for "moral leadership," expressing concern that a small group of people are making decisions affecting the world and suggesting that "a little less testosterone" in leadership might help.