CELEBRITIES
Backlash grows after Prince Harry wins award set up to honour war hero
The mother of a US war hero killed in Afghanistan has criticised the decision to give Prince Harry an award honouring her dead son.
Harry will receive the memorial award set up in the name of Pat Tillman – an American football star who gave up a £3million contract to enlist in the US Army after 9/11 – in Hollywood next month.
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.’
ESPN said Harry was being honoured for his ‘tireless work in making a positive impact for the veteran community through the power of sport’ with his Invictus Games.
But the decision to honour him has led to a backlash. A petition yesterday demanded ESPN to think again, claiming Harry had been ‘involved in controversies that call into question his suitability to receive an honour of this magnitude’.
It says: ‘Awarding this honour to someone who does not reflect the award’s intent diminishes its value and disrespects Tillman’s memory.’
Pat Tillman was hailed in the US after giving up his lucrative career with the Arizona Cardinals to enlist as an Army Ranger.
He served in Iraq and then Afghanistan, where he was killed by friendly fire in 2004. He was awarded the Silver Star and Purple Heart for bravery.
One signatory of the petition, Tania Smith, said ‘Pat Tillman embodied service and sacrifice, doing his patriotic duty’ but ‘Harry represents none of these qualities’.
She added: ‘He publicly disrespected his family, ran away from service to his country as a royal… He is unworthy of this award.’
A source said: ‘It’s incredibly hurtful that the family had no say in this. Pat Tillman was a unifying force for good. Harry is divisive… There are many unsung heroes who are far more deserving.’
The prince’s Archewell organisation was approached for comment.
It’s a baby girl!” Brittany Mahomes joyfully welcomes their third child with husband Patrick Mahomes.
ABC’s CEO Drops Bombshell: “The View” Officially Declared the Worst Show on TV and Set for Cancellation.
Look Closely 😱 The photographer recognized he had captured something strange after taking this picture. He didn’t know how unique the photograph was until he checked it…check details below 😱 👇
After the many rumors, Kate Middleton’s secret is finally exposed 😮 It was true all along… Check below 👇
Brittany Mahomes claps back with sarcastic message addressing critics of Patrick Mahomes and Chiefs’ lucky win
HAPPY BIRTHDAY, ANTEH! 🥳🎂 American singer-songwriter Taylor Swift turns 35 today. Thank you for the gift of music, Taytay! 🫶,Travis Kelce’s dad reveals Taylor Swift’s birthday present… details below 😱👇
University of Texas Revokes Scholarships of 5 Anthem Kneelers
Shocking News: Travis Kelce finally proposed to Taylor swift in a secret ceremony
I knew you were going to be my wife with just one glance. Every day, I give thanks to God that I followed my instincts. Thanks for entering my life.” Travis Kelce teary-eyed announces they’re…. Full details below 😱👇
An emotional King Charles was seen in tears as he finally got to embrace his new grandchild, born to Meghan Markle and Prince Harry, three days after the baby’s delivery Who is now the 3rd Child of the Couple. In a touching gesture, King Charles took the opportunity to officially announce the name of his grandchild. The new born has been named… details below 🥰👇
Watch:5 Kim Kardashian: incredible powerhouse swimsuit pictures you can’t stop looking at
