Pat Tillman was a former Arizona Cardinals player who left the NFL to become an Army Ranger. Tillman was killed in Afghanistan in 2004, when he was killed by friendly-fire. Military accounts initially said that Tillman was killed in a firefight, while charging Taliban forces. This initial account was disputed, and the full details of his death have been shrouded in controversy. Tillman was awarded the Purple Heart and the Silver Star.
In May 2009, Tillman's parents objected to the confirmation of Lt. Gen. Stanley McChrystal as the head of military operations in Afghanistan, due to their belief that he falsified the death records of their son.ESPN: Tillman family: General lied (May 12, 2009)
NFL Career
Tillman was the 226th overall draft pick by the Arizona Cardinals and played safety for the team, starting in ten of sixteen games his rookie season. In May, 2002, Tillman turned down a contract offer of $3.6 million in order to enlist in the U.S. Army. Tillman finished his career with 390 tackles, 3 interceptions and 2.5 sacks.
References
Fast Facts
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Fact:
Born November 6, 1976
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Fact:
Killed by friendly fire in Afghanistan, April 22, 2004
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Fact:
Death was reported to be caused by the enemy
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Was shot three times in the head as he prepared to throw a smoke grenade
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Was an Army Ranger when he died
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Was a former NFL safety
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Awards
Purple Heart and the Silver Star
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Fact:
Uniform and body armor were destroyed before being able to be used as evidence
