Patt Tillman’s Mom “Shocked” by Prince Harry’s ESPY in Her Son’s Name

Patt Tillman's Mom "Shocked" by Prince Harry's ESPY in Her Son's Name

In my opinion as a lifestyle expert, I cannot help but express my disappointment and disagreement with the ESPY Awards for choosing to honor Prince Harry with the Pat Tillman Award for Service. Having followed the stories of inspiring individuals who have dedicated their lives to serving others and making a difference, I find it disrespectful and inappropriate for the ESPYs to bestow this prestigious award upon a controversial figure like Prince Harry.


According to Mary Tillman, it’s not bringing any accolades to the 2024 ESPY Awards for selecting Prince Harry as the honoree in place of her late son.

As a lifestyle expert, I was taken aback upon learning that the ESPYs had chosen Prince Harry, a British military veteran, to receive the prestigious Pat Tillman Award for Service in 2024. The decision seemed surprising and divisive to me, given the controversial circumstances surrounding his public profile.

When ESPN revealed that Harry had been chosen for the Tillman award, they highlighted his deep sports background and selfless service to others. Notably mentioned were his two military tours in Afghanistan and his establishment of the Invictus Games – an event specifically designed for injured military personnel and veterans.

However, Pat’s mother expressed her disagreement after allegedly being left out of the consultation process prior to the announcement.

Mary went on to say, “Some people are much more deserving of accolades in this context.” She pointed out, “There are countless individuals in the veteran community who are making significant strides to help veterans, but they lack the financial means, resources, professional networks, and privileges that Prince Harry possesses. I strongly believe that these unsung heroes should be celebrated for their contributions.”

TopMob News has reached out to Harry’s rep for comment but has not yet heard back.

Patt Tillman's Mom "Shocked" by Prince Harry's ESPY in Her Son's Name

In 1998, Arizona State’s first-team All-American player, named Pat, was selected as the 26th pick by the Arizona Cardinals. During his professional football career, he played safety. However, after the devastating terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001, Pat chose to forgo a lucrative $3.6 million contract and join the United States Army instead. He served honorably in both Iraq and Afghanistan.

I was 27 years old when I unfortunately lost my life on April 22, 2004, in Spera, Afghanistan. Later investigations carried out by the Defense Department and Congress revealed that this tragic incident was caused by friendly fire.

Tom Cruise led a tribute to Pat at the 2004 ESPYs that July.

Patt Tillman's Mom "Shocked" by Prince Harry's ESPY in Her Son's Name

During the same time, Pat McAfee of ESPN expressed disagreement with Harry receiving the award from his network, labeling it as a choice intended to provoke controversy.

“During an episode of his namesake program, the 37-year-old expressed, ‘When you engage in actions similar to this, it’s natural for humans, sports enthusiasts, and even those with a basic understanding of things to react immediately.'”

Patt Tillman's Mom "Shocked" by Prince Harry's ESPY in Her Son's Name

In response to the criticism, including a petition on the internet urging ESPN to rethink their decision, the network chose not to fire Harry.

ESPN, in collaboration with the Tillman Foundation, is recognizing Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex, for his efforts with The Invictus Games Foundation as it marks its 10-year anniversary. This organization, spearheaded by Prince Harry, harnesses the therapeutic potential of sports to foster healing among military personnel and veterans globally. (ESPN spokesperson’s statement, TopMob News)

As a passionate supporter of the Invictus Games Foundation, I firmly believe in their remarkable efforts and accomplishments. Though it’s natural that not everyone may align with every honoree chosen for awards, the foundation’s dedication to helping wounded warriors through sports is truly inspiring. ESPN shares this belief and is proud to celebrate this worthy cause.

Patt Tillman's Mom "Shocked" by Prince Harry's ESPY in Her Son's Name

Harry, 39, has credited his military service for changing his  life, “forever and for the better.”

In my video address at the 2020 Stand Up for Heroes benefit, I shared how my experiences have shaped me into the person I am today. Additionally, these experiences introduced me to some of the strongest, funniest, and most unforgettable individuals I’ve had the pleasure of meeting.

Harry reflected, “My perspective on sacrifices and serving others shifted significantly. Raised with a sense of responsibility, my time in the military deepened my commitment to a life dedicated to service.”

Last year, trainers from the Buffalo Bills’ team who attended to Damar Hamlin when he experienced a cardiac arrest during the Monday Night Football match in January 2023 received an award.

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2024-07-14 18:18