Prince Harry gave an impassioned speech as he officially opened the Invictus Games in Florida on Sunday night. Both Harry and First Lady Michelle Obama addressed the crowd during the ceremonial start of the games at Disney's ESPN Wide World of Sports Champion Stadium, which was attended by the likes of Morgan Freeman and former president George W Bush - honorary chairman of this year's games.
© Photo: Getty ImagesPrince Harry proudly opened the 2016 Invictus Games in Florida on Sunday
"I can't tell you how proud I am to have the second Invictus Games open in America," Prince Harry told the crowd. "I am a long way from London tonight, but when I look out I see so many familiar faces, servicemen and women, their friends and their families, and all the people who got them here. I feel like I'm home.""I served alongside soldiers from all over the world," Harry, 31, added. "I saw the sacrifices you and your families made to serve your nations. I learned about the importance of team work and camaraderie in the way that only military service can teach you."
© Photo: Getty ImagesHarry and Michelle Obama met with the children of servicemen and women during the ceremony
The two-hour celebration began with the athletes, dressed in their nation's colours, marching into the stadium to a standing ovation from the audience. The ceremony also included a military flyover and a fireworks display, while James Blunt and soprano Laura Wright were among those who performed on the night.
© Photo: Getty ImagesFirst Lady Michelle described Harry as "our Prince Charming"
First Lady Michelle took to the stage towards the end of the ceremony. "It is truly an honour to be here tonight to help kick off this year's Invictus Games," she said. "I want to, of course, start by thanking Prince Harry for his outstanding leadership and for bringing the Invictus Games here to Orlando. He is truly our Prince Charming. He should be proud of his work. "Prince Harry created The Invictus Games after being inspired to help wounded and sick military personnel and their families following his two tours of duty of Afghanistan. The inaugural Invictus Games were held in 2014 in London.
© Photo: Getty ImagesMorgan Freeman was among the famous faces supporting the event
Nearly 500 athletes from 14 different countries will compete in this year's competition, beginning on Monday. "Over the next four days, you will see things that in years past just wouldn't have been possible," Harry promised. "You will see people who by rights should have died on the battlefield - but instead they are going for gold on the track or in the pool. You will be inspired, you will be moved, and I promise you will be entertained."Addressing the competitors, he added: "You are role models that any parent would be proud to have their children follow."You've made me a better person. You are about to inspire the world and I'm proud to call you my friends. So, let's put on a hell of a show in memory of all of our fallen comrades who didn't make it back. We are Invictus!"
