(SNO) — Bournemouth striker Jermain Defoe was honored with an OBE at Buckingham Palace on Friday, receiving the award from Prince Charles for his charity work helping kids in Saint Lucia.

This was to recognize services by his Jermain Defoe Foundation, which supports homeless, vulnerable and abused children in his family’s home country of Saint Lucia, surrounding Caribbean Islands and the UK.

Speaking about the honor, the Bournemouth forward admitted he felt a wave of mixed emotions when he found out the news.

“It’s obviously mixed emotions because obviously standing here is one of the proudest moments of my life, but at the same time remembering all the hurt,” he said.

He added that the award was at the top when it comes to his achievements.

“I feel like this is something completely different,” Defoe stated. “I am proud of it, to be honest, as it’s important to just give back and try and help others.”

OBE stands for Officer of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire. It is given to an individual who has played a major role in activities such in business, charity or the public sector.