WhenPrince Harrysolemnly stood at attention and stepped forward to lay his tribute wreathfor fallen war heroes on Remmebrance Sunday, some observers wondered why the former Army captain wasn’t wearing a poppy pin on his uniform.
But the royal was wearing his poppy — an artificial flower that has been used since 1921 to commemorate military members who have died in war — only it was hard to spot as it was tucked above his left ear and pinned to his Royal Marine cap.
Harry placed the poppy on his cap — and not on his lapel like the rest of the royals — because he was following orders. According to Royal Marine rules, which follows the Royal Navy as it is a branch of that armed service, he has to wear his paper poppy on his cap behind the cap badge, a royal source tells PEOPLE.
Prince William and Prince Harry.Karwai Tang/WireImage
WIktor Szymanowicz/Getty Images
Samir Hussein/WireImage
Harry, 35, was wearing a ceremonial uniform of the Royal Marines in his role as Captain General of the regiment — a position he took over from his grandfatherPrince Philipalmost two years ago.
Harry and his wifeMeghan Marklewere at the ceremony in central London as they joined other members of the royal family in marking the annual commemoration of those who have fought in world wars and other conflicts.
Prince Harry and Prince William.Samir Hussein/WireImage
For the past two years, the Queen chose not to lay a wreath at the ceremony but to hand the duty off to her son and heir,Prince Charles. The 93-year-old monarch followed this new tradition again, looking on at the proceedings as Charles offered tributes from his mother and himself.
Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall, Queen Elizabeth and Kate Middleton.Samir Hussein/WireImage
Sophie, Countess of Wessex, Meghan Markle and Vice Admiral Sir Timothy Laurence.Kirsty O’Connor/PA Images via Getty Images
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The previous evening, Harry and Meghan, and William and Kate, had been among the family attending the annualFestival of Remembrance celebrationat the Royal Albert Hall.
source: people.com
