Patrick Tillman was a former NFL player for the Arizona Cardinals who voluntarily left his sports career to enlist in the US Army following the 9/11 attacks in 2002. He served in Iraq and Afghanistan, but his death during action due to friendly fire was widely covered by the media and brought attention to his sacrifices and service to his country.
Nearly 19 years after his death, the name of Pat Tillman continues to be remembered in NFL circles. This year’s Super Bowl is a testament to this, as the NFL has announced that he would be honored before the game. Four Pat Tillman Foundation scholars, chosen by the foundation, serve as honorary coin toss captains for the Super Bowl on Sunday.
For younger fans, Tillman is a mystery. His legacy, which includes his football career and the circumstances surrounding his death has raised many questions. Moreover, his wife is also a matter of discussion. Read on to know everything in detail.
Pat Tillman’s Wife: Know About Marie Tilman
Marie Tillman, originally born as Marie Ugendi, is a successful businesswoman and entrepreneur. She holds the position of Chair of the Board at The Pat Tillman Foundation. She was previously married to the late NFL star, Pat Tillman, whom she met during her high school years at Leland High School in California.
Marie remained the widow of Pat Tillman until 2020 when she tied the knot with Joseph Shenton. The couple is blessed with two children, Mac and Mia. Pat and Marie did not have any children together.
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The Pat Tillman Foundation was established by Marie and her family and friends in response to the outpouring of support received nationwide following Pat’s death. From the beginning, Marie was actively involved in the foundation and went on to assume the role of CEO, which she held from 2008 to 2012. Marie has stepped back from her former responsibilities and serves as Chair of the Board for the Pat Tillman Foundation.
Know About Pat Tillman: What Happened To Him?
Pat Tillman was a rising star in the NFL. Despite being a seventh-round pick, he quickly made a name for himself with his incredible hits and big plays. He played for the Arizona Cardinals for four years and was even considered one of the best defensive backs in the league, earning All-Pro votes in 2000.
But Tillman wasn’t just a talented athlete, he was also a voracious reader who loved to learn. Despite being offered a multi-year contract extension by the Cardinals, Tillman declined the deal and joined the U.S. Army after the September 11 attacks. He served alongside his brother and was deployed to Iraq in 2003 and then to Afghanistan in 2004.
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Sadly, Tillman was killed in action on April 22, 2004. The army initially reported that he was killed by enemy combatants during an ambush, but the truth was much different. In reality, Tillman was shot by members of his own battalion while trying to protect his fellow soldiers. The U.S. Army fabricated the circumstances of Tillman’s death in an attempt to maintain domestic support, but this only added to the nightmare for the propaganda machine.