PRINCE Harry has said he “respects” a war hero’s mum in a speech – after she blasted the “privileged” prince.
The Duke of Sus𝑠e𝑥 was given an award honouring war hero Pat Tillman at a ceremony in Los Angeles last night.
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4Prince Harry accepting an award honouring war hero Pat TillmanCredit: Getty
4US Army Ranger Tillman was killed by friendly fire in AfghanistanCredit: Reuters
4Tillman quit his sporting career after 9/11 to enlist in the US ArmyCredit: AP
4Harry and his wife Meghan posing with Serena WilliamsCredit: Getty
Former NFL star Tillman quit his sporting career after 9/11 to enlist in the US Army.
He was killed while serving in Afghanistan in 2004, and has been honoured by the Pat Tillman Award for Excellence.
Tillman’s mother Mary slammed the news that Harry would be this year’s recipient of the award – saying she was not consulted.
But in his speech, Harry said: “I’d like to acknowledge the Tillman family, especially Mary Tillman, Pat’s mother.
Harry seen for first time in a month as he speaks out in heartwrenching video
“Her advocacy for Pat’s legacy is deeply personal and one that I respect.
“The bond between a mother and son is eternal and transcends even the greatest losses.”
Last month, Mary said: “I am shocked as to why they would select such a controversial and divisive individual to receive the award.
“There are individuals working in the veteran community doing tremendous things to assist veterans.
“These individuals do not have the money, resources, connections or privilege that Prince Harry has.”
She added: “I feel that those types of individuals should be recognised.”
Harry and his wife Meghan Markle beamed as tennis star and pal Serena Williams introduced his award last night.
The pair skipped the red carpet before the event after the backlash over Harry receiving the prestigious award.
He won the gong for his Invictus Games work at the star-studded Los Angeles bash.
In his speech, Harry said: “The truth is I stand here not as Prince Harry, Pat Tillman Award recipient, but rather as a voice on behalf of the Invictus Game Foundation.
“Thousands of veterans and service personnel from over 20 nations have made the Invictus Games a reality – this award belongs to them not me.
“It is of great importance to me to highlight these allies and their amazing families for their achievements, their spirit, and their courage at every opportunity.
“Especially on nights like this in front of people like you. Moments like these help us reach the people who need Invictus most.
“And reduce more than 20 veterans a day taking their own lives in this country alone.”
