The Duke of Sussex’s commitment to supporting veterans and serving the greater good has been a hallmark of his public life, and this year’s prestigious Pat Tillman Award for Service is a well-deserved recognition of his extraordinary efforts. As the founder of the Invictus Games, Harry has played a pivotal role in empowering wounded, sick, and injured servicemembers and veterans to find healing and camaraderie through the power of adaptive sports. His personal experience of military service, including two tours in Afghanistan, has deeply informed his passion for this cause, and his tireless advocacy has helped to shine a spotlight on the resilience and determination of those who have sacrificed so much in service to their countries.
The Pat Tillman Award for Service is a prestigious accolade that honors individuals who have used their platform and influence to positively impact the lives of others. Named after the legendary NFL player and U.S. Army Ranger Pat Tillman, who tragically lost his life in Afghanistan, this award recognizes those who embody the selfless spirit and unwavering commitment to service that defined Tillman’s legacy. Each year, the award is presented to a deserving recipient whose actions and initiatives have made a meaningful difference, whether it be within the realm of sports or through broader humanitarian efforts. By shining a spotlight on these remarkable individuals, the Pat Tillman Award for Service serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative power of service and the profound impact that one person can have when they choose to use their voice and resources to uplift and empower others.
Prince Harry’s military service and experiences in Afghanistan served as the impetus for his establishment of the Invictus Games Foundation. After completing two tours of duty as a forward air controller and Apache helicopter pilot, Harry recognized the profound impact that sports and community could have on the lives of wounded, sick, and injured servicemen and women. Determined to harness the power of athletic competition to aid in the recovery and rehabilitation of these individuals, he founded the Invictus Games in 2014.
The Invictus Games is an international multi-sport event for wounded, injured, and sick servicemen and women, both active duty and veterans. Through the various sporting events, participants are empowered to showcase their resilience, determination, and competitive spirit. More importantly, the games provide a platform for these heroes to form supportive communities and engage in physical activity that aids in their physical and mental recovery. By leveraging his platform and experiences, Prince Harry has used the Invictus Games to positively impact the lives of countless service members and veterans around the world.
