Prince Harry's speech at the opening ceremony of the Invictus Games

Summary

The speaker reflects on their experience witnessing the recovery journey of injured soldiers and locals in Afghanistan, highlighting the Warrior Games as a testament to their resilience. They emphasize the transformative power of sport in their rehabilitation, enabling them to redefine themselves as athletes rather than victims. The speaker warmly welcomes the participating nations to London and acknowledges the crucial support of families in their recovery, expressing confidence in the inspirational impact of the games on all involved.

Takeaways

• 🌟 The speaker has witnessed the full cycle of recovery from life-changing injuries, from evacuation to reaching the South Pole with wounded veterans.
• 🏥 The journey of recovery is challenging, and the admiration for those who overcome their injuries is limitless.
• 🏅 The Warrior Games showcased individuals who were told they would never walk again, but went on to win medals in front of their families.
• 💪 Sport has been a key element in the recovery process, allowing individuals to focus on their achievements rather than their limitations.
• 🤝 The stories of these individuals are unique, but they all share the common thread of using sport as a means of recovery.
• 🏆 The Invictus Games in London will feature remarkable achievements, with some participants moving on to elite sports and others marking the beginning of a new chapter in their recovery.
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 The families of the participants play a vital role in their recovery and are recognized for their support.
• 👏 The British public's support for servicemen and women has been exceptional and is expected to continue during the games.
• 🌍 The games welcome participants from 13 nations, highlighting an international community of support and inspiration.
• 🙌 The speaker expresses gratitude for the example set by the participants, whose stories inspire, move, and humble others, proving that anything is possible with the will.

Q & A

What is the speaker's experience with life-changing injuries?

The speaker has witnessed the entire cycle of life-changing injuries, from evacuating soldiers and Afghans to hospital, flying home with the critically injured, meeting others in hospital, and observing wounded veterans on a journey to the South Pole.

What is the admiration the speaker has for those recovering from injuries?

The speaker has limitless admiration for the men and women who move beyond their injuries.

What event did the speaker attend through the RO Foundation?

The speaker attended the Warrior Games in the United States through the RO Foundation.

What was particularly breathtaking about the Warrior Games?

It was breathtaking to see people who had been told they would never walk again, now winning medals in front of their families and friends.

How does the speaker believe others are inspired by the achievements at the Warrior Games?

The speaker believes that the achievements at the Warrior Games inspire not just other servicemen and women, but all those adjusting to life post-injury.

What is the common factor shared by all the stories of recovery mentioned in the script?

The common factor shared by all the stories of recovery is sport, which has been the vehicle for their recovery.

How does sport contribute to the recovery process according to the speaker?

Sport allows the individuals to channel their passion into what can be achieved rather than focusing on what they can no longer do.

What is the significance of the achievements at the upcoming event?

The achievements at the event will be significant as they will either serve as a stepping stone to elite sport or mark the end of a chapter in their recovery and the beginning of a new one.

How does the speaker describe the effort put forth by the participants?

The speaker states that everyone who takes part will be giving it their all.

What is the speaker's message to the 13 Nations participating in the games?

The speaker expresses great pleasure in welcoming the 13 Nations to London and acknowledges the vital role of families in the recovery process.

What does the speaker thank the participants for?

The speaker thanks the participants for setting a tremendous example, for their stories that move, inspire, and humble, and for proving that anything is possible with the will.