Prince Harry, the Duke of Sussex, is set to be honored with the prestigious Pat Tillman Award for Service at the 2024 ESPY Awards. This accolade recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to society through their connection to sports, echoing the legacy of the late NFL player and U.S. Army Ranger, Pat Tillman. The award will be presented during the star-studded event on July 11, which will be broadcast live on ABC and hosted by tennis legend Serena Williams.
The Pat Tillman Award for Service is named after Pat Tillman, a former safety for the Arizona Cardinals who left his NFL career to enlist in the U.S. Army following the 9/11 attacks. Tillman tragically lost his life in Afghanistan in 2004 due to a friendly fire incident. The award honors those who have demonstrated a commitment to service and have used their platform in sports to positively impact the lives of others.
Prince Harry’s selection for this award is a testament to his tireless efforts in supporting the veteran community through the Invictus Games Foundation. Founded in 2014, the Invictus Games is an international sporting event for wounded, injured, and sick servicemen and women, both active-duty and veterans. The Games provide a platform for these individuals to compete in Olympic-style events, fostering a sense of community and empowerment through sports.
Harry’s journey with the Invictus Games began after his decade-long service in the British Armed Forces, where he completed two tours of duty in Afghanistan and served as a forward air controller and Apache helicopter pilot. His firsthand experience with the challenges faced by veterans inspired him to create the Invictus Games, which have since become a global phenomenon, changing the lives of soldiers on every continent.
In response to the announcement of his award, Prince Harry expressed his gratitude, stating, “This one is for our entire service community.” His dedication to the cause is evident through his continuous involvement with the Invictus Games, including recent visits to the U.K. and Nigeria to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Games. Additionally, Harry is gearing up for the first-ever Winter Invictus Games, set to be held in Whistler, Canada, in 2025.
The 2024 ESPY Awards will also honor other notable figures in the sports world. Former NFL player Steve Gleason will receive the Arthur Ashe Award for Courage for his ongoing battle with ALS and his efforts to raise awareness for the disease. Gleason, who played for the New Orleans Saints, was diagnosed with ALS in 2011 and has since become a prominent advocate for those affected by the condition. His journey was documented in the film “Gleason,” which premiered at the Sundance Film Festival.
University of South Carolina women’s basketball head coach Dawn Staley will be awarded the Jimmy V Award for Perseverance. Staley, a U.S. Olympic Hall of Fame member and Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame inductee, led the Gamecocks to a perfect 38-0 season and a national championship this year. Her contributions to women’s basketball and her resilience in the face of challenges have made her a deserving recipient of this honor.
Kate Jackson, Vice President of Production at ESPN, expressed the organization’s pride in recognizing these individuals, stating, “It’s our privilege to recognize three incredible individuals – Steve Gleason, Dawn Staley, and Prince Harry. 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.”
The ESPY Awards, which stand for Excellence in Sports Performance Yearly, celebrate the best athletes and sports figures across various categories. This year’s nominees include Caitlin Clark, Shohei Ohtani, Patrick Mahomes, and Simone Biles, among others. The event promises to be a night of celebration, inspiration, and recognition of those who have made significant contributions to the world of sports and beyond.
Prince Harry’s recognition with the Pat Tillman Award for Service highlights his unwavering commitment to supporting veterans and using the power of sports to bring about positive change. His work with the Invictus Games has provided a platform for wounded warriors to showcase their resilience and strength, fostering a sense of community and empowerment. As the 2024 ESPY Awards approach, the spotlight will shine on Harry and the other honorees, celebrating their remarkable achievements and contributions to society.
Source: ESPN, People, The Hollywood Reporter
