Cardinals safety walks away from NFL to try and become an Army Ranger

South Florida Sun-Sentinel ^ | July 8, 2002 | AP Wire

[ameribbean expat]

FORT BENNING, Ga. -- Former NFL player Pat Tillman is used to pushing his body to the limit with grueling training in the summer heat. This summer, though, he will be sweating it out as an Army recruit.

Tillman, the 25-year-old starting safety for the Arizona Cardinals, turned down a $3.6 million contract for $18,000 a year and an uncertain quest to become an Army Ranger.

Tillman, who has rejected all interview requests to talk about his decision, began basic training Monday at this base in southwest Georgia, joining his younger brother, who enlisted with him.

[ameribbean expat]

Obviously not a major league baseball player

[ameribbean expat]

s/b "walks" in post heading. I hate it when I do that.

[dts32041]

Another Hollifield in the making? (he was the one that wimped out of army basic after two weeks, to tought for him)

[Alberta's Child]

I thought that was Riddick Bowe, not Evander Holyfield.

[NeoCaveman]

The Cardinals? I didn't know they still were an NFL team?

[Slip18]

This just shows us again that no one wants to be a Cardinal.

[Slip18]

Can you imagine call a team the Cardinals in AZ? There are no Cardinals here.

[Slip18]

"call" s/b "calling."

[ECM]

It was Riddick Bowe and it was the Marines.

[cschroe]

great for him. He's likely already financially secure for the rest of his life from his first 4 years in the NFL. Now he wants to do something constructive with his life, and a purpose. I hope he succeeds (and his brother, too)!

[flying Elvis]

I think this is awesome and wish him the best. How many people have you ever heard of who gave up million$$$ to serve their country? Furthermore, he is gambling with his health if he injures himself in training, his future as an athlete is over. This guy is risking it all to serve his country. I'll be rooting for him every step of the way. Whether he makes it, washes out, or quits, he had the courage and character to try.

[Poohbah]

What you said!

God bless him, and may he earn his Ranger tab.

[phasma proeliator]

Big BUMP for an Honorable decision.

needs to be more of this in our Nation today.

The only thing that I see - if he really wanted a challenge - he should have went Navy.
and tried for the SEALS

[phasma proeliator]

Come on - this is a Honor America thread - please correct the title from "waks" to "Walks"...

[rdb3]

Physical prowess isn't the key in Ranger school. It's mental toughness. It's no joke at all, trust me.

I wish him well, and will welcome him into the "Wings" family. Can't be a Ranger without your wings, you know?

[phasma proeliator]

Thank YOU!