By I. Hansana, Jadetimes News
Prince Harry Accepts Pat Tillman Service Award Amidst Controversy
Prince Harry has accepted the Pat Tillman Award for Service at the ESPYs, despite objections from Mary Tillman, mother of the fallen soldier. Harry, who is fifth in line to the British throne, served in the military for a decade, including two tours in Afghanistan as a helicopter pilot. He is also credited with founding the Invictus Games, an international sporting event for wounded, injured, or sick veterans, in 2014.
In his acceptance speech, Harry emphasized that he was receiving the award on behalf of the Invictus Games Foundation and the veterans who participate. "The truth is, I stand here not as Prince Harry, Pat Tillman award recipient, but rather a voice on behalf of the Invictus Games Foundation and the thousands of veterans and service personnel from over 20 nations who have made the Invictus Games a reality," he said. "This award belongs to them. Not to me."
Mary Tillman expressed her belief that individuals who lack Harry's resources and privilege should be recognized instead. A petition on Change.org gathered over 75,000 signatures protesting Harry's selection for the award.
During his speech, Harry acknowledged Mary Tillman's absence and respected her advocacy for her son's legacy. "Her advocacy for Pat's legacy is deeply personal and one that I respect," he said. He also addressed the challenges facing the world and highlighted the unifying power of the Invictus Games, which aims to reduce the high suicide rate among veterans.
Citing a Roman military expression, "Leave no one behind," Harry promised continued support for veterans through the Invictus Games. "No matter the road ahead, we are here for you. We will leave no one behind," he said.
Pat Tillman, formerly an NFL player for the Arizona Cardinals, left his sports career to join the U.S. Army following the 9/11 attacks. He served in Iraq and Afghanistan before being tragically killed by friendly fire in 2004 at the age of 27. Tillman's legacy is widely associated with sacrifice, heroism, and honor.
