Posted on 04/24/2004 8:52:08 AM PDT by threat matrix
The death of an NFL star who traded in a multi million dollar contract to fight for his country is an example of the patriotism and sacrifice of all soldiers who put their lives on the line, the US military said Saturday.
'Specialist Tillman was clearly a patriot, but I think that exmplifies ultimately the patriotism of every solider, seaman, airman and Marine serving in Afghanistan today..everybody serving here is truly a patriot,' Lt. Col. Matthew Beavers said.
Beavers also gave a few more details about the firefight that cost 27 year old Tillman his life.
He said it occurred at 7:30PM Thursday on a road near a village of Sperah, about 25 miles southwest of a US base at Khost.
After coming under fire, Tillman's patrol got out of their vehicles, persued their attackers, then were ambushed. Beevers said the fighting was 'sustained' and lasted 15-20 minutes.
Tillman was killed by enemy fire, but there was no information about what type of weapon was involved or whether Tillman died immediately.
A local Afghan commander, General Khail Bas, told the Associated Press that nine enemy fighters were killed in the clash.
He said three were Afghan and others were believed to be Central Asians and Arabs, frequently found fighting alongside Taliban and Al Qaeda.
(Excerpt) Read more at fortwayne.com ...
Then with all due respect, back away from the keyboard.
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