Posted on Apr 23, 2015
CH (MAJ) William Beaver
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We've all heard about it. There are feelings and views on both sides. But as we gear up for another NFL season and still are engaged in Iraq and Afghanistan, what is your take on the Pat Tillman saga ?
Posted in these groups: P240 RangerAir combat art 0134 Combat33f7f11 NFL
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CSM Brigade Operations (S3) Sergeant Major
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Edited 9 y ago
I may be biased because I am an Arizona boy but, Pat Tillman personifies what it means to be an American. His brother is also a great role model. To completely walk away from the NFL and all the money he would make to join the Army, as an enlisted Soldier, volunteer for the most dangerous MOS, complete all the required training, knowingly and willingly wanting to fight for this country is one of the greatest acts of patriotism I have ever seen. As I mentioned, his brother left a baseball career to do the same thing.

Tragic what happened, and embarrassing for the Army but, I am confident Corporal Tillman knew the risks of his chosen profession.

Rest In Peace and Godspeed Ranger Tillman!
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SFC Stephen King
SFC Stephen King
9 y
I concur CSM. Pat Tillman was epitome of an American in action and word.
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1SG Company First Sergeant
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My take is that it only got so much attention because he was an ex NFL player. There is no way in this world any other Soldier that paid the ultimate sacrifice would have ever gotten that much attention. I had the pleasure of serving with a young man named Ross Mcginnis, without googling do you know who he is? Many don't and that kid is a medal of honor recipient, no doubt that every Soldier we have lost is tragic, just get's under my skin that certain ones based on their past fame gets so much more attention. ---rant over---
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CSM Brigade Operations (S3) Sergeant Major
CSM (Join to see)
9 y
I completely agree with you 100%. The fact he was a pro athlete caused the media frenzy. I think the core of the discussion is that it wasn't important to him. He could of joined as an officer, I am sure he could of not deployed or deployed to a non-hostile position/area. The fact that he just wanted to be a regular old grunt I think proves his patriotism. As you said, all of our brothers and sisters deserve as much respect if not more.
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COL Jean (John) F. B.
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Tragic situation that resulted in the death of an American patriot and hero.

Mistakes were made in the handling of the situation. hopefully, the lessons learned from it will preclude recurrence.

Tragic mistakes happen in war and can be expected. What is not expected is the alleged cover-up of the truth. There is never an excuse for that. Let the chips fall where they may. Dishonesty discredits the sacrifice made by this hero and others like him.
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