Pat Tillman

Pat Tillman was a hard-working linebacker who played for the Arizona Cardinals. In May 2002, Tillman was offered a $3.6 million contract. He turned this contract, feeling called to enlist in the military after the 9/11 attacks (Darnton). He left his seemingly perfect life- a multi-million dollar deal and newly married wife- to do what he felt was the correct path for him. Many people just didn't understand how someone could just give up the celebrity life to endanger their own life. Tillman did not care what others thought, though. He wanted to help his country in whatever way he could, which was through fighting against terrorism, not football (Patrick Daniel Tillman). Tillman knew himself well and knew what he expected of himself in life. He knew the possible consequences of going into the military but was so driven to help his country. Most people in the world would not have made the same decision that Pat made, but this is what made him unique. Sadly, while in Afghanistan, Tillman was killed by friendly fire. He is deservingly widely regarded as a national hero, one who was independent unmatched in his courage (Pat Tillman Biogrpahy).