PHOENIX — Today would have been Pat Tillman's 47th birthday. The "born leader" turned down an NFL contract to serve in the United States Army, and left Arizona with a legacy that holds strong even 19 years since his death.
Tillman was born on Nov. 6, 1976 and made a name for himself with the Arizona State University Sun Devils as a fan favorite player. Despite being small for a linebacker at 5 feet 11 inches tall, he helped his team go undefeated in his junior year.
He was drafted to the Cardinals in 1998 where he played the safety position. In May 2002, Tillman left his NFL career to serve in the United States Army in the wake of the Sept. 11 attacks.
Both Arizona State University and the Arizona Cardinals shared touching messages about Tillman and the impact he had.
Tillman was killed by friendly fire in Afghanistan on April 22, 2004. He posthumously received the Silver Star and Purple Heart medals. Tillman was also inducted into the Arizona Cardinals Ring of Honor.
His legacy continues to live on after his death. The Pat Tillman Foundation helps to fund higher education for veterans, military servicemembers and military spouses. His No. 40 jersey is still on display at State Farm stadium.
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