Acceptance Speech Highlights
Introduction and Gratitude
Prince Harry, the Duke of Sussex, was honored with the Pat Tillman Award for Service at the 2024 ESPYS. He began his acceptance speech by expressing his deepest gratitude to the Pat Tillman Foundation, led by Marie Tillman Shenton, who was present at the event. He also acknowledged the Tilman family, especially Pat’s mother, Mary Tillman, for her advocacy of Pat’s legacy.
Representing Invictus Games
Prince Harry emphasized that he accepted the award not as an individual but as a representative of the Invictus Games Foundation. He dedicated the award to the thousands of veterans and service personnel from over 20 nations who have made the Invictus Games a reality.
Significance of Invictus
He explained the origin of the word “Invictus,” which comes from Latin, meaning undefeated or unconquerable. He shared how Nelson Mandela credited the poem “Invictus” by William Ernest Henley for giving him strength during nearly 30 years of imprisonment. Prince Harry highlighted that the spirit of the Invictus Games transcends race, time, and borders, being born from unity and exuding purpose.
Achievements and Challenges
Celebrating 10 years of the Invictus Games, Prince Harry noted the significant progress made and the life-changing impact of the games. He acknowledged the current global state marked by polarization and division, emphasizing how the Invictus community challenges these issues by proving that unity is possible and formidable.
The Spirit of Invictus
He praised the Invictus Games for bringing people together, regardless of nationality, background, or personal struggles. He described the athletes as exemplifying the very best in humanity, having survived armed combat and rebuilt their bodies and minds impacted by conflict.
Commitment to Veterans
Concluding his speech, Prince Harry referenced a military expression, “leave no one behind,” significant to the US Army’s Rangers and believed to be lived by Pat Tillman and his comrades. He promised on behalf of the Invictus Games Foundation to support veterans and service personnel, ensuring that no one is left behind.
Prince Harry’s speech was met with applause, underscoring his commitment to the Invictus Games and the veteran community.