Prince Harry, the Duke of Sussex, was honored with the prestigious Pat Tillman Award for Service at the 2024 ESPYs on Thursday night. The decision to select the royal as the recipient drew criticism from Mary Tillman, the mother of the slain veteran, but Harry expressed gratitude for the recognition and acknowledged Tillman's family in his acceptance speech.

During the ceremony held at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, California, Prince Harry commended the Pat Tillman Foundation and specifically mentioned Mary Tillman's advocacy for her son's legacy. He acknowledged the profound bond between a mother and a son, recognizing that it transcends even the greatest losses.

The Pat Tillman Award for Service is named after Pat Tillman, a former NFL player who sacrificed his football career to join the U.S. Army after the 9/11 attacks. Tragically, Tillman was killed by friendly fire in Afghanistan. The award was presented to Prince Harry in recognition of his work with the Invictus Games, an international sporting event he founded for wounded, injured, and sick servicemen and women.

In his acceptance speech, the 39-year-old Duke of Sussex humbly redirected the focus away from himself and towards the veterans and service personnel whose lives have been impacted by the Invictus Games. He emphasized that the award belongs to all of them, rather than just himself.

"The spirit of the Invictus Games transcends race, time, and borders," Prince Harry said, highlighting the unity and purpose that the event embodies. He also mentioned the milestone of celebrating ten years of transformative impact and healing through sports.

Prior to the award ceremony, ESPN had announced Prince Harry as the recipient of the Pat Tillman Award for Service. However, Mary Tillman expressed her disagreement with the choice, stating that there were more fitting recipients within the veteran community who lack the financial resources, connections, and privilege that Prince Harry possesses.

ESPN responded to the criticism by pointing out that the selection was made in collaboration with the Tillman Foundation, which supports the decision. The sports network defended the recognition of Prince Harry's contributions to the Invictus Games Foundation, highlighting the incredible work done by the organization.

The Pat Tillman Award for Service, given to individuals with a strong connection to sports who have served others in a manner echoing Pat Tillman's legacy, has previously been awarded to notable recipients such as the Buffalo Bills' training staff, Army veteran Gretchen Evans, and Manchester United striker Marcus Rashford.

Despite the controversy surrounding his selection, Prince Harry remains steadfast in his commitment to the Invictus Games and the veterans it supports. His acceptance of the Pat Tillman Award for Service serves as a testament to his dedication and unwavering support towards wounded, injured, and sick servicemen and women from around the world.