Army Finds Tillman Death Likely Result Of Friendly Fire

Recent news reports have stated that Pat Tillman’s death was likely the result of friendly fire.

"While there was no one specific finding of fault, the investigation indicated that Cpl. Tillman probably died of friendly fire while his unit was in combat with enemy forces," Lt. Gen. Philip Kensinger Jr., of the Army's Special Operations Command, said at a news conference at Ft. Bragg, North Carolina.

"The results of this investigation in no way diminish the bravery and sacrifice of Cpl. Tillman," Kensinger said. "Cpl. Tillman was shot and killed while responding to enemy fire without regard to his personal safety."

Fratricide is a reality of war. It is a sad reality, but a reality nonetheless. No military no matter how well trained or equipped could execute life and death operations without the possibility of fratricide.

Fratricide, self defense or behind the lines operations. How Pat Tillman was killed will never change the fact that he was a true American hero.

As we all know he walked away from a multi-million dollar NFL career to serve this great nation, and serve he did. Pat Tillman paid the ultimate sacrifice for all of the things he cherished. I hope Cpl. Tillman will always be remembered as the hero he is.

Posted by SlagleRock at June 2, 2004 08:14 PM