The Trump administration’s war with the NFL has a new critic. The widow of deceased Army Ranger and football superstar Pat Tillman blasted the president in a statement released to CNN.
“As a football player and soldier, Pat inspired countless Americans to unify,” Marie Tillman said.
“It is my hope that his memory should always remind people that we must come together. Pat’s service, along with that of every man and woman’s service, should never be politicized in a way that divides us. We are too great of a country for that.”
Trump used an image of Tillman in uniform to shame NFL players who refuse to stand for the national anthem.
“Those that serve fight for the American ideals of freedom, justice and democracy. They and their families know the cost of that fight. I know the very personal costs in a way I feel acutely every day,” Marie continued.
Pat died in a friendly-fire incident two years after enlisting. The military’s handling of his death sparked controversy after officials took weeks to admit that he wasn’t killed by enemy fire.
“Even if they didn’t always agree with those views. It is my sincere hope that our leaders both understand and learn from the lessons of Pat’s life and death, and also those of so many other brave Americans,” Marie concluded.
The NFL is taking a big leap of fate. The organization’s battle with the president could destroy their ratings and tank revenues.
Donald Trump retweeting someone using Pat Tillman on NFL/anthem tells you everything, especially if you know about Pat Tillman.
— Richard Deitsch (@richarddeitsch) September 25, 2017
(Source: Daily Mail)