Meghan Markle and Prince Harry recently made a discreet yet impactful visit to Camp Pendleton in San Diego ahead of Veterans Day. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, through their organization Archewell, spent the morning engaging with veterans, active-duty service members, and their families at Operation Bigs.
Founded in 2004, Operation Bigs is a unique mentoring program that supports children from military families by fostering connections with mentors who share similar experiences and challenges. The program has played a vital role in connecting over 3,000 children of Navy and Marine Corps members with mentors, addressing the shared experiences of having parents in the military, both during deployment and upon their return.
During Meghan and Harry’s visit, attendees, anticipating Veterans Day, shared personal stories of how Operation Bigs has played a vital role in supporting their aspirations and fostering stronger community bonds. Through these heartfelt testimonials, it became evident that the program not only provides practical support but also serves as a catalyst for building resilience and a sense of belonging among military families.
Prince Harry, a military veteran with a decade-long service, has consistently championed causes related to the armed forces. His involvement in Operation Bigs aligns seamlessly with his unwavering dedication to supporting veterans and their families. The Duke of Sussex has been a vocal advocate for mental health initiatives within the military and has used his platform to shed light on the unique challenges faced by those in uniform.
Meghan Markle, too, has demonstrated a sincere commitment to military communities and initiatives that make a positive impact. Her involvement in Operation Bigs reflects a shared dedication with Prince Harry to uplifting military families. As a couple, they have consistently leveraged their influence to raise awareness about the importance of mental health, community support, and mentorship within military circles.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex’s visit to Camp Pendleton not only highlighted the importance of Operation Bigs but also underscored the broader significance of mentorship programs in military communities. By choosing to shine a spotlight on initiatives like Operation Bigs, Meghan and Harry contribute to a larger conversation about the well-being of military families and the pivotal role mentorship plays in their lives.
Since its inception in 2004, Operation Bigs has grown to become a beacon of support for children of Navy and Marine Corps members. The program’s decade-long impact is a testament to its effectiveness in providing a support system for young individuals navigating the complexities of having parents in the military. Meghan Markle and Prince Harry’s visit serves as a recognition of Operation Bigs’ success in creating lasting connections and fostering resilience within military families.
Meghan Markle and Prince Harry’s involvement in Operation Bigs is part of a broader vision to provide comprehensive support to military families. Their commitment extends beyond occasional visits, as evidenced by their ongoing initiatives through Archewell. The royal couple envisions a future where military families have access to resources, mentorship, and a supportive community that understands and addresses their unique challenges.
The success of Operation Bigs offers a blueprint for other initiatives aiming to support military families. The program’s focus on mentorship, shared experiences, and community building provides a template for organizations looking to make a positive impact in the lives of children with parents in the military. Meghan and Harry’s endorsement of such programs amplifies the call for increased awareness and investment in initiatives that directly benefit military communities.
Meghan Markle and Prince Harry’s discreet visit to Camp Pendleton and their engagement with Operation Bigs exemplify their commitment to making a lasting impact on military communities. By choosing to champion causes like mentorship programs, the royal couple underscores the importance of supporting the often-overlooked challenges faced by military families. As their influence continues to shape conversations and initiatives, Meghan and Harry pave the way for a more supportive and resilient future for those who serve and their families.