Prince Harry's Invictus Games gets underway in Florida

Prince Harry's Invictus Games has got underway in Florida.

Athletes from the UK held a Union Jack flag as they walked into the ESPN Wide World of Sports stadium for the opening ceremony on Monday.

Harry declared the event a showcase of the "very best of human spirit".

Over the next four days, injured servicemen, women and veterans from 14 countries will go head to head in a range of sports.

Prince Harry gives a speech at the opening ceremony. Credit: PA
Veteran supporter Michelle Obama was there. Credit: Reuters
James Blunt stood on his piano as he performed. Credit: Reuters

US First Lady Michelle Obama, a long-time supporter of US veterans, joined Harry, along with Hollywood actor Morgan Freeman and Defence Secretary Michael Fallon.

The royal has been the driving force behind behind the Invictus Games since he staged the inaugural event in London to great acclaim in 2014.

Invictus - Latin for unconquered - uses the power of sport to inspire the recovery of those who have suffered combat injuries, serious accidents away from the battlefield or debilitating illnesses.

The flags of each nation are paraded into the stadium. Credit: PA
Fireworks go off at the end of the ceremony. Credit: PA

The show began with the American national anthem played by a military band and as it rang out the Blue Blasters - the US Navy Strike Fighter Squadron 34 Flyover - roared overhead in a tight formation of four jets.

The crowd was then treated to the sight and sound of the US Army Old Guard Fife and Drum Corps, whose members wear period uniforms from the late 18th century.

During the games, more than 500 competitors from countries including Italy, Germany, Australia, Estonia, Jordan and the UK and Afghanistan will compete in 10 events - archery, indoor rowing, powerlifting, road cycling, sitting volleyball, swimming, athletics, wheelchair basketball, rugby and tennis.