The decision to honor Prince Harry with the Pat Tillman Award at the 2024 ESPY Awards has sparked significant controversy, particularly from Mary Tillman, the mother of the award’s namesake. Pat Tillman, a former NFL player who became an Army Ranger after the September 11 attacks, is remembered for his selfless service and ultimate sacrifice. Mary Tillman expressed her dismay to the Daily Mail, stating she was never consulted by ESPN regarding the choice of Prince Harry for the award.
“I am shocked as to why they would select such a controversial and divisive individual to receive the award,” Mary Tillman said. She emphasized that there are many other deserving individuals within the veteran community who have made significant contributions without the fame and resources that Prince Harry possesses. “There are recipients that are far more fitting,” she added, pointing out that the award has traditionally been given to unsung heroes.
The Pat Tillman Award, established in 2014, honors individuals who embody the spirit and legacy of Pat Tillman. Last year’s recipient was the Buffalo Bills training staff, who were recognized for their life-saving efforts when player Damar Hamlin suffered a cardiac arrest during a game. Mary Tillman believes that the award should continue to honor those who have made significant, yet often unrecognized, contributions to the veteran community.
ESPN analyst Pat McAfee also criticized the decision, accusing the network of trying to provoke controversy. “It’s going to Prince Harry, who I don’t even think is a Prince anymore, right? He said don’t call me that? See, why does the ESPYs do this?” McAfee said on his talk show. He described the decision as “the most embarrassing thing I’ve seen in my entire life.”
Kate Jackson, VP of Production at ESPN, defended the choice, stating that the honorees, including Prince Harry, have used their platforms to create positive change and make the world more inclusive for marginalized communities. “These honorees have used their platforms to change the world and make it more inclusive for marginalized and suffering communities, demonstrating incredible resilience, positivity, and perseverance, and we’re thrilled to celebrate them at the 2024 ESPYs,” Jackson said.
Despite the controversy surrounding his royal life, Prince Harry has been recognized for his military service and his efforts to support veterans. He served in the British military for 10 years, including two tours in Afghanistan as a helicopter pilot. He is also the founder of the Invictus Games, a multi-sport event for wounded, injured, and ill servicemen and women, which has been running since 2014.
“This one is for our entire service community,” Prince Harry said upon learning he would receive the Pat Tillman Award. However, Mary Tillman remains unconvinced, arguing that the award should go to someone who has not already received significant recognition and accolades.
The backlash against ESPN’s decision has been growing, with a petition circulating over the weekend demanding the network reconsider. The petition argues that awarding the honor to someone who does not reflect the award’s intent diminishes its value and disrespects Tillman’s memory.
Royal commentator Angela Mollard also weighed in, suggesting that some award organizations might be seeking extra publicity by bestowing honors on high-profile individuals like Prince Harry. “I think that these awards want some coverage so they will give it to Harry one year rather than giving it to somebody who is probably a bit more deserving,” Mollard said.
Pat Tillman, who was selected by the Arizona Cardinals in the seventh round of the 1998 NFL Draft, left a lucrative NFL career to enlist in the U.S. Army following the September 11 attacks. He served tours in Iraq and Afghanistan before being tragically killed by friendly fire in 2004. His legacy is one of selflessness and dedication, qualities that Mary Tillman believes should be reflected in the recipients of the award named in his honor.
The controversy surrounding Prince Harry’s selection for the Pat Tillman Award highlights the ongoing debate about how best to honor those who serve and the criteria used to select award recipients. As the ESPY Awards approach, the decision continues to generate discussion and differing opinions within the veteran community and beyond.
Source: Daily Mail, ESPN, Getty Images, Tribune News Service, Reuters, AP
