Moments in NFL history: Pat Tillman’s legacy lives on

Pat Tillman’s story is one of inspiration and sacrifice. Generations to come can use it as motivation to give back and serve, no matter the situation.

Tillman left his NFL career in 2001 with the Arizona Cardinals to join the military after the terrorist attacks on Sept. 11.

“At times like this, you stop and think about just how good we have it, what kind of system we live in and the freedoms we’re allowed,” Tillman said to reporters the day after the attacks. “A lot of my family has gone and fought in wars, and I really haven’t done a damn thing.”

Tillman enlisted in the U.S. Army, along with his brother Kevin in 2002 and was assigned to the Second Battalion of the 75th Ranger Regiment at Fort Lewis in Washington. He served two tours – 2003 in Iraq as part of Operation Iraqi Freedom and 2004 in Afghanistan as part of Operation Enduring Freedom.

Tragedy struck April 22, 2004, when Tillman was killed in action while providing cover for team members.

“Pat Tillman personified the best values of America and of the National Football League,” former NFL Commissioner PAUL TAGLIABUE said to kick off the 2004 NFL Draft. “Like other men and women protecting our freedom around the globe, he made the ultimate sacrifice and gave his life in service for his country.”

Tillman’s legacy lives – through his foundation and on the same grounds he served this country.

On this date (April 3) in 2005, the Pat Tillman Memorial United Services Organization (USO) opened at Bagram Airfield in Afghanistan. Thanks to a generous donation from the NFL, the center was able to be built in Tillman’s name. It provides free Wi-Fi, computers, phones, snacks and games for service members – a much-needed break from the stress of deployment.

“The Pat Tillman USO is actually probably one of the few USOs that actually has a namesake,” Tiffany Banks, the USO Bagram Center Director, said in a video posted by the USO to commemorate the opening of the center in 2005.

Tillman’s impact and legacy continue to live on in Canton, Ohio, as part of the America 250 display within the walls of the Pro Football Hall of Fame. His Army Ranger jacket and white-bronze maquette of his silhouette are on display recognizing his contributions. To learn more about his display, click here.

This article from the Hall of Fame Communications Team is part of recurring series celebrating memorable moments in NFL history.