Today marks the 82nd anniversary of the devastating Pearl Harbor attack, a tragic event that claimed the lives of over 2,400 service members and civilians, ultimately propelling the United States into World War II.
In remembrance of this fateful day, ceremonies are being held across states, with flags flying at half-mast as a solemn tribute.
To officially recognize the significance of December 7th, 1941, President Joe Biden has declared it as National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day.
The White House released a statement expressing the nation’s collective sorrow and gratitude for the brave individuals who made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of their country.
Amidst these commemorations, rumors have circulated regarding Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s desire to lay wreaths at the Pearl Harbor Memorial.
However, according to an anonymous source on Blind Items, Harry’s manager, Tom Leatherman, has banned him from attending the event due to concerns of a potential media frenzy.
Last year, on Pearl Harbor Day, the Harry Archival Foundation shared previously unseen photos of Harry’s surprise visit to the memorial in Honolulu, Hawaii.
The images captured poignant moments as Harry saluted Navy personnel, interacted with servicemen and their families, and paid his respects to Admiral John Aquilino, commander of the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command.
This year, however, Harry’s plans to visit the Pearl Harbor National Memorial alongside Meghan were thwarted by Leatherman’s decision.
Allegedly, concerns arose that Meghan might exploit the solemn occasion for her own publicity, with reports suggesting she intended to arrive with an entourage of paparazzi, security guards, and assistants.
Tom Leatherman, the newly appointed superintendent of the Pearl Harbor National Memorial, was reportedly infuriated by the couple’s demands, leading to the ban.
Consequently, the Harry Archival Foundation is unable to promote this year’s event with any photographs.
It is worth noting that Prince Harry has a deep connection to the military, having served for a decade and completed two tours of duty in Afghanistan.
Since leaving the Royal family, he has continued his commitment to supporting wounded and injured service members and veterans through the Invictus Games, which he has organized since 2014.
Although Harry can no longer wear military dress after relinquishing his royal duties, he is still permitted to proudly display the medals he earned during his service.
However, he chose not to wear them during his recent outing.
Since stepping back from their royal roles in January 2020, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have taken it upon themselves to individually commemorate Remembrance Day.
In 2020, the couple personally paid their respects to fallen Commonwealth soldiers at the Los Angeles National Cemetery, where they are now based following their departure from the UK.
Last year, the couple surprised a New Jersey military base with a visit, demonstrating their ongoing commitment to honoring those who have served.
However, their decision to arrange for a photographer to capture these personal acts of remembrance drew criticism, particularly when Lee Morgan released the images to the public.
In 2020, Harry was reportedly disappointed when he was denied permission to lay a wreath at the cenotaph on his behalf due to his status as a non-working royal.
This incident further underscored the complexities and challenges faced by the couple as they navigate their new roles outside the bounds of traditional royal duties.