Early Life and Education of Pat Tillman: A Complete Timeline

An overview of the childhood and early education of Pat Tillman, highlighting the experiences that shaped the journey.

Pat Tillman was an American NFL player for the Arizona Cardinals. Following the September 11 attacks, he left his professional football career to enlist in the U.S. Army Special Operations in 2002. Tillman served in both Iraq and Afghanistan. His story garnered significant media attention, particularly after his death was revealed to be a result of friendly fire. He is remembered for his patriotism and the sacrifice he made by leaving a lucrative sports career to serve his country.

Sections (6)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Controversies & Scandals Legacy & Impact

November 6, 1976: Pat Tillman's Birth

On November 6, 1976, Patrick Daniel Tillman Jr. was born.

1983: Tillman's Father Earns Juris Doctor

In 1983, Pat Tillman's father earned his Juris Doctor from Lincoln Law School of San Jose.

1994: College Career at ASU

In 1994, Pat Tillman started his college career as a linebacker for Arizona State University (ASU), securing the last remaining scholarship for the team.

1996: Clyde B. Smith Academic Award

In 1996, Pat Tillman earned the Clyde B. Smith Academic Award.

1998: Sun Angel Student Athlete of Year

In 1998, Pat Tillman was named the Sun Angel Student Athlete of Year.

May 2002: Tillman Enlists in the Army

In May 2002, Pat Tillman left his professional football career with the Arizona Cardinals and enlisted in the United States Army Special Operations following the September 11 attacks.

May 2002: Turns Down Contract to Enlist

In May 2002, Pat Tillman turned down a $3.6 million contract offer from the Arizona Cardinals to enlist in the U.S. Army, following the September 11 attacks.

May 31, 2002: Enlistment with Kevin

On May 31, 2002, Pat Tillman and his brother Kevin enlisted in the U.S. Army.

September 2002: Completion of Basic Training

In September 2002, Pat Tillman and his brother Kevin completed basic training together.

September 2003: Entered Ranger School

In September 2003, after participating in the initial invasion of Iraq as part of Operation Iraqi Freedom, Pat Tillman entered Ranger School at Fort Benning, Georgia.

November 28, 2003: Graduation from Ranger School

On November 28, 2003, Pat Tillman graduated from Ranger School at Fort Benning, Georgia.

December 2003: Tillman Discusses Religion with Bob Ferguson

In December 2003, Tillman told Bob Ferguson, then-general manager of the Seattle Seahawks, "You know I'm not religious."

April 15, 2005: Inaugural Pat's Run

On April 15, 2005, the inaugural Pat's Run took place in Tempe, with 5,000 participants running a 4.2-mile course to commemorate Tillman. A second race was held in San Jose.

September 25, 2005: Report on Tillman's Views on Iraq War

On September 25, 2005, the San Francisco Chronicle reported that Tillman held views critical of the Iraq War. Tillman planned to meet with Noam Chomsky after returning from Afghanistan.

September 2008: "Walk for Pat" Begins

In September 2008, Rory Fanning began his "Walk for Pat", walking across the United States to raise money and awareness for the Pat Tillman Foundation.