Sources close to the royal family have revealed that the Duke of Sussex had a valid reason for not wearing the coronation medal during his recent award speech.
Despite his glowing tribute to Sergeant First Class Elizabeth Marks, whom he hailed as a friend and an inspiration, the Duke of Sussex caused a stir by omitting the King’s coronation medal from his attire while presenting the Soldier of the Year award.
The incident took place outside his Montecito residence, where he was seen in a sharp black suit jacket adorned with various British military medals.
While many royal observers noted the absence of the King’s coronation medal, speculation arose regarding the Duke of Sussex’s motives.
Some critics viewed his decision as a sign of arrogance, but royal analyst Ephraim Hardcastle dismissed such claims, explaining that the medal required professional attention.
According to Hardcastle, the medal needed repairs, including attaching it to a longer ribbon and securing it to a sturdy backing, as it was originally mounted on a short ribbon.
A representative from the Daily Mail echoed this sentiment, stating that the Duke of Sussex’s choice not to wear his father’s coronation medal was not intended as a slight towards the King.
The intricate repair process, involving a specialist and a longer ribbon, was necessary for the proper display of the medal.
Suggestions were made humorously, proposing that the monarch could have expedited the process by sending his yeoman to California via FedEx.
Reflecting on the Duke of Sussex’s own military honors, it was highlighted that he was awarded the Operational Duty Medal for Afghanistan in 2008, following his service in Helmand Province.
Additionally, he proudly sported the Queen’s Golden Jubilee Medal, Diamond Jubilee Medal, and Platinum Jubilee Medal during the event.
In a heartfelt moment captured on video, the Duke recounted his first encounter with Sergeant First Class Elizabeth Marks at the 2016 Invictus Games in Orlando, where he presented her with four gold medals for her swimming achievements.
Describing Marks as a symbol of courage, determination, and resilience within the military community, the Duke praised her for overcoming numerous challenges, both physical and emotional.
Despite sustaining injuries while serving as a medical assistant in Iraq and enduring multiple surgeries, Marks emerged as the first female participant and swimmer in the Army’s elite athlete program.
Her journey of transformation, fueled by empathy and perseverance, has inspired others to believe in the power of resilience and hope.
Beyond her personal triumphs, Marks has dedicated herself to supporting and motivating individuals on their paths to recovery and well-being through sports.
By sharing her story and advocating for the therapeutic benefits of physical activity, she has become a beacon of encouragement for those facing adversity.
The Duke of Sussex’s admiration for Marks’s resilience and compassion was evident in his words, underscoring her impact on the military community and society at large.