Prince Harry to receive Pat Tillman Award for Service
Prince Harry has been advised not to accept the Pat Tillman Award by a royal expert following outcry amongst those who feel he is less than deserving.
The Duke of Sussex has so far not confirmed whether he will accept the honour, named after a former NFL player who joined the US Army after 9/11 and served in Iraq and Afghanistan before being killed by friendly fire.
Royal expert Michael Cole told GB News about Harry's position: "I'm sure he'll listen to what his wife says. I wish he was listening to public relations people that would guide him on these things because public perception is very important, particularly in his role."
He added: "People get turned off quite quickly by the wrong sorts of actions, and I think showing a little bit of discretion, showing a little bit of nobility, shall we say some princely behaviour, might be important here."
Mr Cole's argument was summed up by this statement: "If Prince Harry is being advised properly, he may reflect that discretion is the better part of valour and politely decline."
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Harry's nomination has been controversial, despite ESPN claiming that he was receiving the award for his work with the Invictus Games, that a petition was launched asking for the decision to be reconsidered.
The Pat Tillman award was set up in his name to honour "a person with a strong connection to sports who has served others in a way that echoes the legacy" of Mr Tillman.
Pat Tillman's mother Mary criticised the decision to award Harry, saying: "I am shocked as to why they would select such a controversial and divisive individual to receive the award.
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"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 explained that they had chosen to honour the Duke for his "tireless work in making a positive impact for the veteran community through the power of sport" with his Invictus Games.
A statement from ESPN in defence of their decision read: "ESPN, with the support of the Tillman Foundation, is honoring Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex, specifically for the work of The Invictus Games Foundation as it celebrates its 10th year promoting healing through the power of sport for military service members and veterans around the world.
"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."
A inside source from the opposing camp told GB News: "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."
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