AceShowbiz - At the 2024 ESPYs, Prince Harry accepted the Pat Tillman Award For Service amid backlash from the late soldier's mother. Despite controversy, his dedication to the service community shone through in his heartfelt remarks.

Prince Harry expressed his "deepest gratitude to everyone at the Pat Tillman Foundation," specifically thanking Pat Tillman's widow Marie Tillman Shenton and his mother Mary Tillman. He emphasized, "[Mary's] advocacy for Pat’' legacy is deeply personal and one that I respect. The bond between a mother and son is eternal and transcends even the greatest losses." His touching acknowledgment was a highlight of the evening, as wife Meghan Markle watched from the audience.

Harry dedicated his award to the "entire service community," but it was his comments about Pat's mother that left a lasting impression. The Duke of Sussex received the award due to his efforts in founding the Invictus Games, an international competition for wounded and sick military members and veterans. However, the decision was not without controversy.

After the announcement, Pat's mother openly criticized ESPN's choice, stating, "I am shocked as to why they would select such a controversial and divisive individual to receive the award." She argued that other individuals, who lack Prince Harry's resources and connections, were more deserving of the honor. Mary Tillman's frustration was further compounded by the fact that her family was not informed about Harry's selection in advance, unlike previous years.

The Pat Tillman Award for Service was established in 2014 to honor the former NFL star who enlisted in the Army after the 9/11 attacks and was tragically killed by friendly fire in Afghanistan.

The selection of Prince Harry aimed to recognize his contributions to military veterans through the Invictus Games. Even though the controversy overshadowed his acceptance, his dedication to the veteran community and efforts to support those who have served remain commendable.