The mother of a US war hero killed in Afghanistan has hit out after Prince Harry was given the award that honours her son.
The Duke of Sussex is set to receive the Pat Tillman Award for Service in Hollywood next month. It is an honour meant for someone with a strong connection to sports
who has served others in a way that honours the legacy of Pat Tillman, a former NFL player and US Army Ranger who was killed in action in Afghanistan.
However, the decision to give the accolade to Harry has sparked huge controversy.
Following on from TV host Pat McAfee airing his discontent on air, the mother of the fallen soldier his criticised the decision and claimed she was not consulted.
The Daily Mail reports mum Mary fumed: “I am shocked as to why they would select such a controversial and divisive individual to receive the award.
“There are recipients that are far more fitting. There are individuals working in the veteran community that are doing tremendous things to assist veterans. These individuals do not have the money, resources, connections or privilege that Prince Harry has. I feel that those types of individuals should be recognised.”
The ESPY Awards (Excellence in Sports Performance Yearly) is run by the sports TV network ESPN, with this specific award previously being handed out to to unsung heroes.
Last year, Buffalo Bills American football team training staff who revived a dying player on the field won the accoladed.
It’s said Harry has been honoured due to his “tireless work in making a positive impact for the veteran community through the power of sport” with his Invictus Games event.
Speaking of Harry’s nomination, TV host McAfee argued that it does not fit with the award’s intended purpose and questioned the selection process.
Speaking on air, he said: “A lot of conversation about Pat Tillman’s name American hero … Now there’s an award named after him, as there should be in the sports world because that is somebody who is the definition of selfless.
Despite the controversy surrounding Prince Harry receiving the Pat Tillman Award for Service, there are some who support the decision and commend Harry for his efforts in the veteran community. Many believe that Harry’s work with the Invictus Games and his advocacy for mental health support for veterans make him a deserving recipient of the award.
It is important to note that the ESPY Awards have a history of recognizing individuals who have made significant contributions to sports and the community. While some may argue that there are more deserving candidates, it is ultimately up to the selection committee to choose the recipient based on their criteria and values.
Harry’s nomination for the award has reignited conversations about the impact of sports in supporting and empowering veterans. The Invictus Games, founded by Prince Harry, has provided a platform for wounded, injured, and sick service personnel to showcase their resilience and strength through sports.
As the debate continues, it is essential to recognize the diverse perspectives on the matter and consider the overall intention of honoring individuals who embody the spirit of service and selflessness. Whether controversial or not, Prince Harry’s recognition sheds light on the ongoing efforts to support veterans and promote positive change in the community.
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Source: Tampa Bay Times
