The mother of a U.S. war hero who was killed in Afghanistan has expressed her disapproval over Prince Harry being awarded an honor named after her late son, Pat Tillman.
This award is set to be presented to Prince Harry at the upcoming ESPY Awards in Hollywood this month. Pat Tillman was an American football star who sacrificed a lucrative $3 million contract to enlist in the U.S. Army following the 9/11 attacks. He served in Iraq and Afghanistan, where he was tragically killed by friendly fire in 2004. Tillman was posthumously awarded the Silver Star and Purple Heart for his bravery.
Mary Tillman, Pat's mother, revealed that she wasn't consulted about the decision to give the award to Prince Harry. She voiced her concern, stating, "I'm shocked as to why they'd select such a controversial and divisive individual to receive the award. There are recipients that are far more fitting. There are individuals working in the veteran community who are doing tremendous things to assist veterans. These individuals do not have the money, resources, connections, or privilege that Prince Harry has. I feel that those types of individuals should be recognized."
The ESPY Awards, organized by the sports TV network ESPN, annually present the Pat Tillman Award to individuals who exemplify selflessness and dedication in the service of others, particularly within the veteran community. In the past, the award has honored unsung heroes such as the members of the Buffalo Bills training staff, who saved a player's life on the field last year. ESPN stated that Prince Harry's been recognized for his tireless work in making a positive impact on the veteran community through the power of sport with his Invictus Games initiative.
However, this decision has sparked significant backlash. A petition has emerged urging ESPN to reconsider, arguing that Prince Harry's controversies undermine the award's significance and disrespect Tillman's memory. The petition argues that awarding this honor to someone who doesn't reflect the award's intent diminishes its value. Tanya Smith, one of the petition's signatories, further criticized the choice, stating, "Pat Tillman embodied service and sacrifice, doing his patriotic duty. Harry represents none of these qualities. He publicly disrespected his family and ran away from service to his country as a royal. He's unworthy of this award."
A source close to the Tillman family echoed these sentiments, highlighting the family's exclusion from the decision-making process. The source added, "It's incredibly hurtful that the family had no say in this. Pat Tillman was a unifying force for good; Harry is divisive. There are many unsung heroes who are far more deserving."
Prince Harry's Invictus Games, founded to support wounded veterans through sports, have been a significant part of his philanthropic efforts. The next Invictus Games are scheduled to take place in Canada in 2025, with a potential bid for the UK to host the 2027 games. Last year's event in Germany saw the inclusion of three new countries: Israel, Colombia, and Nigeria. Following the event, Harry and Meghan were invited to Nigeria, where they spent three days visiting major cities and participating in Invictus-related activities, leading some to dub it an unofficial royal tour.
The award should go to those who, like Pat Tillman, have demonstrated selflessness and sacrifice without the benefit of privilege and resources. Pat Tillman sacrificed his life for duty and country, while Harry walked away from his responsibilities, disrespecting his commander-in-chief, country, duty, and family on his way out.
