Prince Harry paid a touching tribute to his dearly departed grandfather Prince Philip after flying back to the U.K. to attend his funeral this weekend.
The Duke of Sussex described his grandfather as a "man of service, honor, and great humor."
Prince Harry published his tribute on his Archewell Foundation's website Tuesday. He praised his grandfather for his authenticity, his "seriously sharp wit," and his charm that could "hold the attention of any room."
"He will be remembered as the longest-reigning consort to the Monarch, a decorated serviceman, a Prince, and a Duke. But to me, like many of you who have lost a loved one or grandparent over the pain of this past year, he was my grandpa: master of the barbecue, legend of banter, and cheeky right 'til the end," Prince Harry said.
"You will be sorely missed, but always remembered, by the nation and the world. Meghan, Archie, and I (as well as your future great-granddaughter) will always hold a special place for you in our hearts," Prince Harry added.
Prince Harry closed his tribute with the words "Per Mare, Per Terram," which means "By Sea, By Land" in Latin. The phrase is the motto of the UK Royal Marines.
Prince Philip was part of the Royal Marines and completed his naval service in 1953. He continued to hold his position as the Captain-General of the Royal Marines until his death.
Prince Harry is currently staying at the Frogmore Cottage where he is self-isolating in compliance with the nation's coronavirus protocols for international travelers. His arrival will mark his first in-person meeting with his family after he and his wife Meghan Markle stepped back as senior royals last year and moved to California.
Prince William also offered his own tribute to his grandfather. The Duke of Cambridge described Prince Philip as an "extraordinary man and part of an extraordinary generation." He added that he was lucky to have had his grandfather present well into his adult life and he was grateful that his wife and children had met him.
"I will never take for granted the special memories my children will always have of their great-grandpa coming to collect them in his carriage and seeing for themselves his infectious sense of adventure as well as his mischievous sense of humor," William said.
