On July 11, 2024, Prince Harry is set to be honored with the Pat Tillman Service Award, a prestigious accolade named after the late NFL player who gave up his sports career to serve in the military, ultimately losing his life to friendly fire in 2004.

While the award aims to recognize individuals who demonstrate exceptional service, whether in the military or through community efforts, this year’s nomination has sparked significant debate and controversy.

Reports suggest that Harry’s nomination may be strategically timed to support his O1A visa application.

Various online sources indicate that receiving such awards can bolster a visa application by showcasing an individual’s potential contributions to the country along with their achievements.

However, this tactic has raised eyebrows and led to a divided public opinion regarding Harry’s eligibility for such a distinguished honor.

Critics are quick to voice their disapproval, arguing that Harry’s controversial past disqualifies him from receiving the award.

Allegations against him include casual racism, animal cruelty, and inappropriate behavior, including claims of s–ual harassment and past drug use.

These accusations have intensified scrutiny surrounding his candidacy for the award meant to honor selflessness and sacrifice.

Harry’s military service has not escaped criticism either.

His deployment in Afghanistan was marked by protection from special forces and Gurkhas, leading to questions about his actual role and response during incidents like the Camp Bastion attack.

Furthermore, his memoirs and public disclosures about military actions have drawn ire from various quarters, raising doubts about his integrity and motivations.

His own admissions have fueled the controversy.

Remarks about the U.S. First Amendment and his departure from royal duties, which resulted in the loss of military patronages, have only added fuel to the ongoing debate.

Allegations of misconduct during his military tenure, including using racial slurs and making homophobic jokes, have tarnished his image in some military circles.

Adding to the scrutiny are incidents from his past that reveal troubling behavior.

Reports of Harry playing strip billiards while on active duty and admitting to drug use have raised serious concerns about his qualifications for an award that celebrates heroism and dedication.

His interactions with the media have been marked by contradictions, further complicating perceptions of his character.

Moreover, Harry’s history with animals has also come under fire.

An incident where he allegedly used spurs excessively on a pony, resulting in severe injuries, has raised ethical questions.

Another tragic event involved a pony that died of a heart attack while pregnant, despite warnings against using her for a polo match.

These incidents have only deepened the public’s concern over his treatment of animals.

In February 2021, Queen Elizabeth II took the unprecedented step of stripping Harry of his military patronages, including titles such as Captain General Royal Marines and Honorary Air Commander of RAF Honington.

This decision came after he withdrew from official duties as a civil servant, marking a significant shift in his royal and military standing.

Harry’s remarks regarding the U.S. Constitution have also stirred controversy.

He described the First Amendment, which guarantees fundamental rights like freedom of speech and assembly, as “bonkers.”

This perspective clashes sharply with the oath taken by U.S. Armed Forces members to uphold the Constitution, further complicating his relationship with those who value military service.

As the date of the award ceremony approaches, the debate surrounding Prince Harry’s nomination continues to intensify.

Supporters argue that his charitable work and advocacy efforts warrant recognition, while detractors maintain that his past actions and controversies render him unworthy of such an honor.

The outcome of this situation remains to be seen, but it undoubtedly highlights the complexities surrounding public figures and their legacies.