Previous winners of the Pat Tillman Award for Service are standing by Prince Harry amidst controversy surrounding his selection for the honor at the upcoming 2024 ESPY Awards. The backlash faced by ESPN for choosing Harry has sparked a wave of support from individuals who have themselves been recognized for their service.
Jake Wood, a former Marine and college football player who received the award in 2018, expressed his approval of Harry as a recipient, deeming him a "natural fit" for the honor. Wood highlighted Harry's military service and his advocacy for veterans as reasons why he is a suitable choice for the award. According to Wood, Harry's dedication to supporting veterans deserves commendation, considering the multitude of paths available to a British royal.
Israel Del Toro Jr., the 2017 recipient of the Tillman Award, also voiced his support for Harry, citing the prince's work with veterans as a testament to his worthiness for the recognition. Del Toro, an Air Force master sergeant wounded in Afghanistan, emphasized the shared experience of serving in the military, with both himself and Harry having served in the same conflict zone.
ESPN recently announced that Prince Harry will be honored with the Tillman Award at this year's ESPY Awards, scheduled to air on July 11. Named after Pat Tillman, a former NFL player and U.S. Army Ranger who lost his life in Afghanistan, the award recognizes individuals whose service efforts echo Tillman's legacy of dedication and sacrifice.
Last year, the Buffalo Bills training staff received the honor for their life-saving actions during a game. This year, Prince Harry is being acknowledged for his role as the co-founder of the Invictus Games, a sporting event for wounded and sick servicemen and women.
Following the announcement of Harry's selection, Pat Tillman's mother, Mary Tillman, expressed her disapproval of ESPN's decision, labeling Harry as a "controversial and divisive" choice for the award. Mary Tillman argued that there are more deserving individuals within the veteran community who lack the resources and privilege that Harry possesses.
In response to the criticism, ESPN defended their decision to honor Prince Harry, emphasizing the impactful work of The Invictus Games Foundation in promoting healing through sports for military personnel and veterans worldwide. While acknowledging differing opinions on the selection, ESPN reiterated their belief in celebrating the foundation's valuable contributions.
The 2024 ESPY Awards will showcase Prince Harry as the recipient of the prestigious Pat Tillman Award, recognizing his efforts in supporting veterans through the Invictus Games. The ceremony is set to air on ESPN on July 11 at 8 p.m. ET.
