On Thursday, June 27, ESPN announced that Harry, 39, will be this year’s recipient of the Pat Tillman Service Award.
Each year, this award is given to someone who has used his or her connection to the sports world to positively impact the lives of others.
The award is named after legendary NFL player and U.S. Army Ranger Pat Tillman.
Prince Harry to Receive Pat Tillman Award at ESPYS 2024
The Duke of Sussex was chosen as the 2024 honoree in recognition of the profound impact he has had on the veteran community with his Invictus Games Foundation.
Harry started the foundation after spending 10 years in the British Armed Forces, during which time he completed two tours of duty in Afghanistan and served as an advanced air controller and Apache helicopter pilot.
Through his foundation, the prince empowers wounded, sick and injured servicemen and women to stay active and build communities by participating in sporting activities.
In response to the news that he will receive the Pat Tillman Award at this year’s ESPYS, Harry said, “This one is for our entire service community.”
The Invictus Games have become a worldwide phenomenon, changing the lives of soldiers on every continent.
In honor of the 10th anniversary of the Games, Harry has been celebrating the Invictus community with visits to the United Kingdom and Nigeria.
Harry is preparing for the first Invictus Winter Games, which will be held in Whistler, Canada, in 2025.
The Duke of Sussex and his wife, Meghan Markle, were in Canada in February to kick off a year of celebrations leading up to the big event.
“It is our privilege to recognize three incredible people – Steve Gleason, Dawn Staley and Prince Harry,” said Kate Jackson, ESPN VP of Production, in a press release. “These honorees have used their platforms to change the world and make it more inclusive for marginalized and suffering communities, demonstrating incredible resilience, positivity and perseverance, and we’re thrilled to celebrate them at The 2024 ESPYS.”
Making Harry’s honor even more special, this year’s ESPYS will be hosted by his close friend Serena Williams. The ESPYS will air July 11 on ABC.