Complete speech of the Invictus Games

Her husband also spoke of the importance of seeking help for mental health issues.

MEGHAN'S SPEECH

The 37-year-old mother-in-law spoke passionately about the "camaraderie and sense of community" of the Games, before opening to the crowd.

"On a very personal note, I want to thank you for hosting me in the Invictus family," she said.

"I do not know if many of you know that, but a few years ago, before meeting my husband, I had the incredible honor of meeting troops deployed all over the world, from the United Kingdom, Afghanistan and several other countries.

"While visiting these military bases, I had a very special insight into the lives of those who serve our country. I could see the unshakeable bond between military and women on the ground, but at the same time feel the palpable desire for family and friends during the deployment. Once home, the need for this supportive anchor from loved ones, especially given its acceleration of recovery and re-incarceration, is immeasurable. These memories have been recalled here. "

Focusing on her experience at the Sydney Invictus Games, Meghan said that she "had witnessed some of the most incredible support networks surrounding her competitors and that I had the privilege of meeting many of these family members. and friends, "she said.

"The Novak family in Chicago is a great example of this thing. When their son, Ryan, was seriously injured, leaving him paralyzed from waist to leg, the doctors told him that he could never walk again, but after talking to his mother, Kerry, it was clear that it was thanks to the strength of his mind and his spirit. thanks to the unwavering support of his parents, he was able to prove that all these doctors were wrong.

"Ryan not only competed in sailing, swimming and athletics this week, but when Harry and I saw him at the finish line of the sailing competition, he literally jumped into our boat, with dexterity and ease a hug.

"Seeing Ryan's mother on the water that day, brandishing a flag to encourage it, was a moment that I will never forget.The field support system here in Invictus is one of a kind because it's not just about encouraging you, but about realizing that at the end of this week, yours becomes everyone in the Invictus family. "

HARRY'S SPEECH

Moments later, Prince Harry is alone on the stage to address the crowd with a slightly less refined speech.

"Hey guys," he said, his hand on his hip.

He thanked "the Australians who filled the stands and rejoiced".

"Your energy has fueled our competitors all week and you've created these games for yourself, creating a typical Australian atmosphere," he said.

"To the friends and families who invited our competitors to the start line and applauded them until the finish line, thank you. You are all part of a large Invictus family and none of us would be here without you. And the biggest thanks to all competitors. You have once again left us humble and inspired by your example, your determination, your service and your sense of humor. "

"Your choice to serve your nations places you alongside the legendary generations who fought in front of you, who fought in both world wars and then ensured a world order based on freedom, democracy and tolerance. And, of course, this choice to serve, this choice to put oneself at the risk of others, is at the heart of what I founded these Invictus Games to celebrate, "he said.

"I wanted your service to be recognized. But what we saw again this week is that Invictus is so much more than that. Your example goes beyond the military community. It's not just about your inspiring recovery stories after an injury or illness. It is your example of determination, optimism, strength, honor and friendship or, as the Australians call it, companionship. "

Harry momentarily raised his eyebrows, declaring that the Invictus athletes were "not superheroes".

"Because, as you witnessed last week, their achievements are neither impossible nor magical. You have seen it before your eyes because these competitors have succeeded. It was men and women who took up a challenge and overcame it. They are ordinary people doing extraordinary things.

". And with the help of their friends and family, they exceeded all expectations. This is something we can all aspire to. You do not have to be a veteran who has defended an injury to inspire the example of Invictus. You may be a teacher or a doctor, a mother or father, a child or grandparent, a farmer, a plumber, a lawyer or a general manager. You can identify something in your own life that you want to improve. And you can let the men and women of the Invictus Games remind you that no challenge is too difficult to meet. "

"To ask for help is brave," he continued.

"It will immensely improve your life and the lives of those around you. When you admit that you are struggling, you are taking the first step toward a better future for yourself, your friends and your family. You allow those around you to show you the love and concern that is at the heart of healing. I have been there. You have been there. And we must now reach out to those who can never imagine that place. "