Prince Harry Makes Comedy Debut at 17th Annual Stand Up for Heroes Benefit

“As someone who never gets scrutinized, I haven't even had to prepare much," the Duke of Sussex joked as he made a video appearance at the event

Prince Harry is poking fun at himself!

The Duke of Sussex made his comedy debut at the 17th Annual Stand Up for Heroes Benefit on Monday. The 39-year-old gave a speech at the event which is held to support veterans, service members and their families.

“As someone who never gets scrutinized, I haven't even had to prepare much. But I have been working on this particular act for quite some time. And everyone I know tells me it's perfect. No, these aren't people who just tell me what I want to hear. Oh no," Harry’s tongue-in-cheek speech began.

Related: Meghan Markle and Prince Harry Share 'Lovely' Moments in Behind-the-Scenes Photos from Invictus Games

Harry's words at the event, which was presented by the Bob Woodruff Foundation and New York Comedy Festival, then took a more serious turn and he opened up about how “special” the military community is.

“It's one that shares incredible highs and painful lows,” he continued. “It is unique and that is hugely important to society both during active service and after. Our community is valued more than you'll ever know. And nights like this are testament to that.”

Related: Prince Harry Is Like 'One of the Guys,' Invictus Games Team USA Competitor Says (Exclusive)

The Duke of Sussex served in the military for 10 years and undertook two tours of Afghanistan. He first served in Helmand Province in 2007 and 2008, but his tour was cut short after a media outlet broke a news embargo and revealed that he was in the warzone. He later returned for a second tour in 2012.

“I know our experiences and journeys to this point differ, but we are always connected through what we've learned as humans, what we faced as families, and how we've come out stronger because of our ability to listen, to understand and to support one another,” he added. “I am immensely grateful for this community, for the experiences of the past and present and for what you represent and how you show up.”

Can't get enough of PEOPLE's Royals coverage? Sign up for our free Royals newsletter to get the latest updates on Kate Middleton, Meghan Markle and more!

Harry concluded his speech with a heartfelt note to his fellow veterans and their families.

“I salute each and every one of you, my brothers, my sisters, my friends, through respect, understanding and admiration,” he said. “And please remember, if any you feel lost or alone with all this going on, don't forget the power of purpose and upholding the important values you know so well. That always gives you the clarity and company you need.”

The event, held at David Geffen Hall at Lincoln Center in New York City, was attended by a whole host of other famous faces including actor Tom Hanks and his wife Rita Wilson, comedian Tracy Morgan, and singer Bruce Springsteen, who took to the stage to perform.

The Bob Woodruff Foundation was founded in 2006 by Bob and his wife Lee Woodruff after Bob was injured by a roadside bomb while covering the war in Iraq for ABC News. 

For more People news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter!

Read the original article on People.