Meghan Markle has taken a firm stand against critics who questioned the Sussexes' commitment to Remembrance Day traditions after they attended Kris Jenner's star-studded 70th birthday party. The controversy erupted when the Duchess of Sussex appeared without the traditional poppy flower while her husband Prince Harry wore one prominently.
The Party That Sparked Outrage
The Sussexes attended Kris Jenner's lavish 70th birthday celebration in early November, just days before Remembrance Day. While Prince Harry adhered to royal tradition by wearing a poppy, Meghan's decision to go without the symbolic flower immediately drew sharp criticism from royal watchers and traditionalists.
According to multiple reports, palace insiders expressed being 'appalled' by the couple's decision to attend the Hollywood-style event so close to the solemn remembrance period. The timing of the party and Meghan's choice of attire became instant talking points across social media and royal commentary circles.
Social Media Fallout and Response
In the aftermath of the controversy, both Kris Jenner and her daughter Kim Kardashian made the surprising move of removing photos featuring the royal couple from their social media accounts. This deletion only fueled speculation about the nature of the relationships involved and the sensitivity of the situation.
Meghan Markle responded to the growing criticism by sharing powerful reminders of Prince Harry's military service. She posted an old clip of Harry from his time serving in Afghanistan along with a photograph of him visiting a veterans' centre in Toronto. The Duchess captioned her post with her husband's own words: "Once served. Always serving."
Military Service Takes Center Stage
Prince Harry's military background is well-documented and includes two tours of duty in Afghanistan as an Apache helicopter co-pilot and gunner. The royal served in the British Army for ten years, rising to the rank of Captain and participating in numerous royal military engagements even after stepping back from royal duties.
The timing of Meghan's social media posts appears calculated to redirect attention toward Harry's genuine contributions to military causes rather than focusing on fashion choices during a celebrity event. The response highlights the ongoing tension between the Sussexes' new life in California and their continued connection to British traditions and expectations.
This incident represents another chapter in the complex relationship between the Sussexes and royal traditions since their move to the United States. It underscores the challenges they face in balancing their independent public lives with the expectations that follow them from their royal past.
