To Arizona:

The governor of Arizona (Janet Napolitano); a U.S. senator (Jon Kyl), the mayor of Tempe (Neil Giuliano); the president of Arizona State University (Michael Crow); five nationally recognized coaches, many others of exceptional notoriety; an F-16 flyover by the Air Force; use of the ASU stadium with "Pat" painted on the field . . . all for Pat?

My God!

Thanks.

Pat spent eight years, most of his adult life, in Arizona, primarily in the Tempe/Phoenix area, during which time you folks have been . . . the word that keeps coming to mind is "gracious." We are so flattered by the way you took in both Pat and Kevin. They felt welcome while they were away from home with you. That's a big deal; ask any parent. They had a great time in Arizona, and I think Pat would have enjoyed playing for you again.

I understand that Richard, our youngest, stung a few ears during Pat's memorial with his heartfelt rendition of "A World Without Pat." Tough; get over it, and don't go to any more funerals. To all others, he too sends his best regards.

Other comments I made about Pat through the San Jose Mercury News, I'd like to repeat. I tried rewriting this paragraph because I did not want you thinking you got a rehashed version. You deserve fresh thoughts, but the comments apply and I couldn't do it:

I'd like it understood that Pat somehow had the idea that he was part of the "big picture." He had high regard, and high hopes, for this country. He was proud to be part of it. But he wanted no free ride, and it bothered him that too much of his largess and opportunity was at the expense of others. What he did was sincere. He was well trained and did the job expected of a Ranger. He may have (and I believe did) saved American lives during his last battle. He earned his Silver Star, and not by dying. Had he survived this war, he would have had more to contribute to society than many; and that would have been fun to watch.

Remember Pat. He was a good kid and even better adult. He didn't get that way in lazy fashion. I hope you all enjoyed him and appreciate the effort he put into life. Remaining a positive influence would bring a smile to his face, even now.

Thanks.



Pat Tillman Sr., San JoseThe writer is the father of Pat Tillman, an ASU graduate who left an NFL career with the Arizona Cardinals to join the Army. Pat Tillman was killed last month in Afghanistan.