More than 68,000 Americans signed a petition urging ESPN to “rethink” giving the Pat Tillman Award to Prince Harry.
ESPN Responded To The Petition Created Against Harry Receiving The Award
ESPN responded to the petition, stating,
“While we understand not everyone will agree with all honorees selected for any award, The Invictus Games Foundation does incredible work, and ESPN believes this is a cause worth celebrating.”
Pat Tillman retired from the NFL after four seasons to serve in the United States Army subsequent to the terrorist assaults on 9/11 in 2001. He died serving his country in 2004, and his selfless sacrifice will not be forgotten.
This award, which bears his name and is supposed to be presented to someone who exemplifies the same spirit of self-sacrifice, is being given to the Duke of Sussex.
Patti Mickel created the petition against Prince Harry accepting the award. Patti is a New Jersey resident, who said
“The Pat Tillman Award should be representative of his values and should honor someone who, like Tillman, has shown unwavering dedication to their squad and country,”
The issue is that Harry is a very controversial, high-profile figure. He badmouthed his family and capitalized on his royal titles to make money. He is also a privileged and entitled individual.
It’s not only the people who signed the petition, but a top defense chief, Admiral Lord Alan West, warned Harry not to accept the award or face backlash from military veterans.
The 2024 ESPYS are set for Thursday, July 11th, and will be hosted by tennis champion Serena Williams, who also happens to be a close personal friend of Harry’s wife, Meghan Markle.
Prince Harry Is “Stunned” About The Backlash
The Labour Peer was also against Harry accepting the Living Legend of Aviation Award. Of course, Pat Tillman’s mother, Mary Tillman, stated that she didn’t understand why the award was going to Harry, as there are recipients who are far more deserving of the accolade.
Reportedly, Harry is “stunned” by the backlash he’s received since being nominated for the award. The truth is that this is not only publicity for Harry. ESPN, will benefit from someone like him receiving the award.
While the Invictus Games is a noble cause, it’s still an odd choice. However, many think that the Americans’ severe reaction to Harry’s nomination takes the joy out of him winning the award.
It’s likely a bitter pill for Harry to swallow to see that many Americans oppose it, and they even signed a petition.
The petition’s creator, Mickel, said Harry’s fans were coming at her like she was “a member of the British press.” While these people are correct in assuming she’s not a fan of Harry and Meghan, that’s not the reason for the petition. Many people felt strongly about not wanting Harry to receive the award.
One of the petition signers summed up what most were thinking:
“Pat Tillman gave up a luxurious life in the NFL to fight for his country. Harry gave up a life of service for his gain. He’s not on the same level.”
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