Prince Harry, Michelle Obama Help Kick Off Invictus Games

ORLANDO, Fla. (AP) — Britain's Prince Harry and first lady Michelle Obama helped kick off the Invictus Games for wounded veterans with impassioned speeches Sunday night, joining other figures from the worlds of sports, entertainment and politics in a glittery opening ceremony.

The two-hour event included live performances by British singer James Blunt and soprano Laura Wright. Actor Morgan Freeman and former president George W. Bush sat in the audience at Disney's ESPN Wide World of Sports Champion Stadium in Orlando.

Amid the celebrity star power, the spotlight shone on wounded former military members from 14 countries worldwide who as athletes are using sports to help with their rehabilitation, many after horrific injuries suffered in service to their countries.

Nearly 500 athletes will compete in the Paralympic-style sports competition over four days starting Monday.