Los Angeles- During the 2019 ESPYS, former United States Marine Kirstie Ennis will be awarded and honored with the Pat Tillman Award.
Ennis was excited about the award and this is what she had to say about it“After being medically retired from the Marine Corps due to my injuries sustained overseas, I have dedicated my life to serving others in a different way. To receive the Pat Tillman Award and to be associated with a true American hero is a tremendous honor,” said Ennis. “It has taken a village to get me to this point in my life, and I would not be where I am now without the amazing people surrounding me. To me, this is a symbol of community and what it means to pay it forward.”
Ennis had to overcome a lot of adversity after she was involved in a helicopter crash in Afganistan while being on duty. She suffered facial trauma, traumatic brain injury, cervical and lumbar spine trauma, bilateral shoulder damage, and her leg was amputated, but she was optimistic that she will overcome all of the obstacles that were in front of her.
Instead of having a pity party, Ennis founded her foundation Kirstie Ennis Foundation, which provides education and opportunity in the outdoors and to support other non-profits dedicated to improving the quality of life of individuals and families. She also has found her passion for sports.
“Pat lived his life with passion and conviction, driving forward in the face of any obstacle that crossed his path,” says Marie Tillman, Board Chair and Co-founder of the Pat Tillman Foundation. “I see that same drive and courage in Kirstie as she continues to push the limits and achieve her best. We are proud to present the Tillman Award to Sgt. Kirstie Ennis for her service and leadership.”
The ESPYS will air live Wednesday, July 10th at 8 PM ET.
