Pat Tillman: NFL Star Turned Army Ranger Killed in Afghanistan at 27

Pat Tillman was an American football player who left the NFL to serve in the U.S. Army. Born on November 6, 1976, in Fremont, California, he played safety at Arizona State and for the Arizona Cardinals.

After the September 11 attacks, Tillman turned down a multimillion-dollar contract extension and enlisted in the Army with his brother Kevin in 2002. He served in Iraq and then Afghanistan with the 75th Ranger Regiment. He received a posthumous Silver Star and a Purple Heart.

Tillman was killed in Afghanistan on April 22, 2004, at age 27. The Army first said he died in an enemy ambush, but it later acknowledged he was killed by friendly fire. His death prompted congressional investigations.

Achievements: Silver Star, Purple Heart, Arizona Cardinals safety, Pat Tillman Foundation.

Birth: November 6, 1976 - Fremont, California.

Profession: Football player and soldier.

Interesting Facts: The Cardinals retired his No. 40 jersey.