American veteran Pat Tillman’s mother, Mary Tillman, has voiced her disapproval after Britain’s Prince Harry was chosen to receive an award established in her late son’s honor. The Pat Tillman Award, created by ESPN in 2014, aims to recognize individuals “with a strong connection to sports” who have served others in a manner that reflects Tillman’s legacy. Mary Tillman expressed her surprise and disappointment, stating that there were “far more fitting” recipients for the award.
“I am shocked as to why they would select such a controversial and divisive individual to receive the award,” Mary Tillman told the Daily Mail. She emphasized that there are many individuals within the veteran community who are doing remarkable work to assist veterans, despite lacking the financial resources, connections, or privilege that Prince Harry possesses. Mary Tillman confirmed her comments to NBC News but declined further interviews.
Pat Tillman, a former NFL player for the Arizona Cardinals, turned down a three-year, $3.6 million contract to enlist in the military in May 2002, driven by a sense of duty following the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. Tillman was killed by friendly fire in Afghanistan in April 2004, a fact that was initially misreported as enemy fire.
Prince Harry, who also served two tours in Afghanistan, was selected for the award due to his “tireless work in making a positive impact for the veteran community through the power of sport,” according to ESPN. Harry founded the Invictus Games in 2014, an athletic competition for sick and wounded service personnel and veterans. In a statement, Harry said the Pat Tillman Award was “for our entire service community.”
Despite ESPN’s praise for Harry’s contributions, the decision has sparked backlash. A petition urging ESPN to reconsider the honor for Harry had garnered nearly 30,000 signatures by Monday afternoon. Critics argue that Harry’s involvement in various controversies makes him an unsuitable recipient for an award meant to honor Tillman’s legacy.
Emily Nash, royal editor of Hello! magazine, noted that some believe Harry already has a significant platform and recognition for his work, suggesting that the award should go to unsung heroes working behind the scenes. Nonetheless, ESPN defended its choice, stating that the Invictus Games Foundation does incredible work and is a cause worth celebrating.
Mary Tillman reiterated her belief that the award should go to individuals who lack the advantages Harry has. “There are individuals working in the veteran community that are doing tremendous things to assist veterans,” she said. “These individuals do not have the money, resources, connections, or privilege that Prince Harry has.”
The controversy surrounding Harry’s selection for the Pat Tillman Award highlights the broader debate about the appropriateness of honoring high-profile figures with awards meant to recognize selfless service and sacrifice. While Harry’s contributions to the veteran community through the Invictus Games are significant, many feel that the award should go to those who embody the spirit of service and sacrifice that Pat Tillman represented.
As the debate continues, it remains to be seen whether ESPN will reconsider its decision or stand by its choice to honor Prince Harry. The controversy underscores the importance of carefully selecting recipients for awards that carry significant symbolic weight, ensuring that they truly reflect the values and legacy of the individuals they are meant to honor.
Source: Daily Mail, NBC News, Hello! magazine, People
