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Prince Harry had command of the room as he accepted the 2024 Pat Tillman Award for Service at the ESPYS. The Duke of Sussex being awarded the honor was certainly controversial at first.
Harry proved himself worthy, however, during his nearly 6-minute speech in Los Angeles on Thursday, Jul. 11. At moments, the Prince appeared emotional and understandably so. He has a lot to be proud of, 10 years after first founding the Invictus Games Foundation. Although Harry was once considered a “lost” royal, he certainly found his purpose in helping veterans.
The award is named for a former NFL player who gave up his career to serve his country after 9/11. According to the eponymous organization, Harry was celebrated for “his tireless work in making a positive impact for the veteran community” through the Invictus Games.
Harry Was Met With a Standing Ovation As He Took the Stage
Beginning his speech with a long list of thank yous, Harry positioned himself as “a voice on behalf of the Invictus Games Foundation and the thousands of veterans and service personnel from over 20 nations who have made the Invictus Games a reality.”
This award belongs to them, not me. That said, it is of great importance to me to highlight these allies, athletes, and their amazing families for their achievements, their spirits, and their courage at every opportunity, especially on nights like this, in front of people like you.
Prince Harry, ESPYS acceptance speech
Harry detailed the impact that veteran outreach has on the community and the lives it can potentially save. He marked how important the message and impact of the Invictus Games Foundation are. Going into the organization’s 10th year, Harry acknowledged that it’s in an uncertain world.
While so much progress has been made since those first games. The world outside seems to be in an even more precarious state. We live in an age marked by polarization and division. Conflicts rage around the globe. Anger and resentment toward those who are different seems to pervade societies everywhere. Our community challenges that. Our community proves that unity is not just possible, but formidable.
Prince Harry, ESPYS acceptance speech
Referencing a Latin military phrase, Harry concluded his speech. He said, “I make a promise on behalf of all of us at the Invictus Games Foundation — no matter the road ahead, we are here for you. We will leave no one behind.” The emotional moment earned more applause and surely more admiration for the Duke of Sussex.
The Duke of Sussex Was Joined By His Wife on the Special Night
Prince Harry was joined by a special guest on the notable evening. Meghan Markle appeared with her husband at the ESPYS, the two smiling and whispering to each other throughout the evening. The award ceremony was hosted by Meghan’s close friend, Serena Williams.
Williams gave the couple a special shout-out. She referred to the pair as royalty, which is sure to ruffle feathers. While many are delighted by Harry and Meghan and feel they’re still royal figures, that’s not everyone’s opinion. It’s no secret that many of the couple’s critics don’t feel they’ve earned their titles or the right to keep them after leaving the U.K.
It’s well, actually only pretty often that I get to be in a room with actual royalty, and tonight is no exception. Prince Harry and Meghan are here. Let’s give it up for them.
Serena Williams, ESPYS
The moment was a rare outing for the couple. While the two maintain busy professional lives, they have kept a relatively low profile since moving to the United States. The couple and their two children often spend their time at home in California, with a close-knit community of family and friends.
Although their life isn’t what everyone expected for them, they seem happy. Not everyone agrees with the decisions they’ve made, but they seem assured in them nonetheless. They may not be working royals but are still dedicated to admirable values. They try to do good and for many people, that’s more than enough to appreciate them for.
