Isha Sharma
Prince Harry attended the One805LIVE! concert in Carpinteria, California, on Friday night, helping raise funds for Santa Barbara County first responders. The annual event, hosted by actor Kevin Costner, is dedicated to supporting local fire, police, and sheriff departments by providing resources such as equipment and mental health services.
Honouring a Hero’s Legacy
The Duke of Sussex took the stage alongside the night’s honoree, Santa Barbara County air support pilot Loren Courtney, to recognize his decades of service. Courtney has accumulated over 22 years of military experience and 10,000 flight hours.
Despite spending much time away from his family, Courtney explained his deep passion for helping his community, from fighting fires to performing rescue operations.
During their conversation, Prince Harry commended Courtney for his dedication and quipped that, at 65, Courtney “looked 40.”
When asked why he continued his work, Courtney responded, “I love doing it for the county of Santa Barbara. It’s rewarding, whether it’s rescuing someone or fighting fires.”
Courtney shared one of his most memorable experiences—a challenging rescue in Colorado where a group of skiers had fallen 30 feet down an embankment.
One of the skiers had sustained a severe head injury and required five rescue attempts. Despite the difficulties, the skier survived, recovered, and later proposed to his girlfriend at the Grand Tetons, a heartwarming end to a dangerous mission.
Music and Philanthropy Come Together
In addition to Courtney’s recognition, the night celebrated musician Kenny Loggins, who received the “Heart of the Community Award” for his philanthropic work.
The concert also featured performances from Pink & Dallas Green, Joe Bonamassa, Alan Parsons, and other notable artists.
Proceeds from the event will directly benefit Santa Barbara County’s first responders, continuing their invaluable work.
Prince Harry, a former helicopter pilot himself, concluded the event by acknowledging the efforts of first responders like Courtney, stating, “You are one of the many heroes here tonight.”
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