Prince Edward praised the efforts of Canada's military soldiers and stressed their importance on his five-day visit to the country.
He said the role of the Canadian military was important "to reinforce the link that they as servicemen have with the Crown and the sovereign that they serve."
The prince, whose title is Earl of Wessex, is on a working visit to Canada and as part of his schedule will be presenting medals to Canadian soldiers who have served in Afghanistan.
"It's very real," Prince Edward said. "They're very much part of living history and living military history in Canada and playing a very important role and that should be recognized."
The role of Canada's military is of particular concern for Prince Edward as he is the honorary colonel-in-chief of three Canadian regiments comprised of volunteers.
"If you're going into service for your country, I think it's very important to recognize that, and voluntary service in particular," Prince Edward said. "Whether its service in the military, whether it's service in your community."
Prince Edward's visit to Canada extends beyond his military role. He is also in the country in his capacity as the international chair of the Duke of Edinburgh Awards.
The program encourages the participation of youth in community programs. Thousands of young Canadians are participating in the program and the prince presented awards to many youth in Ottawa on Thursday.
"There are times when you're doing the more difficult job of the fundraising side or the promotional side and then you get the opportunity to actually meet the young people and you suddenly remind yourself why you do this and what it does for young people and that's the positive aspect," Prince Edward said. "That's what gives you the buzz."
Prince Edward said that oftentimes, young people's positive contributions to society are overlooked.
"If every now and then somebody can shine a light on it and essentially give encouragement to people that are doing well and are doing good jobs and are not being necessarily recognized for it, then hopefully that will help," Prince Edward said.
In Ottawa on Thursday, Prince Edward attended a tree-planting ceremony to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the royal decree that designated Ottawa as the nation's capital.
The prince also met with Governor General Micha锟絣le Jean at Rideau Hall and laid a wreath at the National War Memorial.
The prince will also be visiting Charlottetown and Halifax on his trip to Canada.
With files from The Canadian Press
