When Pat Tillman’s father dropped F-bomb on U.S. Army investigator

Pat Tillman played four seasons in the NFL, all with the Arizona Cardinals. In May 2002, Tillman enrolled in the U.S. Army after the September 11 terrorist attacks in America. The former Cardinals star served in Iraq throughout Operation Iraqi Freedom and also in Afghanistan.

The Army later opened an investigation regarding Tillman's death at the age of 27. His father wrote a letter to Brigadier General Gary M. Jones, the person who led the investigation, and the Senate Armed Services Committee.

Needless to say, Pat Tillman Sr. did not hold back in his letter, including the usage of some colorful language:

"You are a General. There is no way a man like you, with your intelligence, education, military experience, responsibilities (primarily for difficult situations), and rank... believes the conclusions reached in the March 31, 2005 Briefing Book. But your signature is on it."

He continued:

"I assume, therefore, that you are part of this shameless bulls**t. I embarrassed myself by treating you with respect [on] March 31, 2005. I thought your rank deserved it and anticipated something different from the new and improved investigation. I won't act so hypocritically if we meet again.

"In sum: F**k you... and yours."

Following Tillman's death, there were claims of a huge political cover-up involving the highest levels of the Army. New evidence came to light in the spring of 2007 and there appeared to be holes in the Army's story.

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Was Pat Tillman killed by friendly fire?

On April 22, 2004, Pat Tillman was reportedly killed by friendly fire in Sperah, Afghanistan. Purple Hearts were rarely awarded to victims of friendly fire at the time of his death. Nevertheless, he was deemed eligible for the award after command ruled that Tillman's unit was under attack from enemy fire at the time.

Tillman was posthumously given a Purple Heart medal for his military service in 2004. The former Arizona State star left a three-year contract to join the Army. Many fans will remember the ultimate sacrifice paid by Tillman and his life for his country.