In April 2004, Patrick Daniel Tillman lost his life in Afghanistan while taking part in Operation Enduring Freedom. A member of the U.S. Army Rangers, 2nd Ranger Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, he put his lucrative NFL career on hold in the spring of 2002 to serve his country after the September 11 attacks. His service in Afghanistan drew national attention, and he was the first professional football player to be killed in combat. He received the Silver Star, Purple Heart, Combat Infantrymen Badge, and a posthumous promotion to Corporal. Drafted in the seventh round by the Arizona Cardinals in 1998, Tillman became the starting safety and set the team's franchise record for tackles in 2000 with 224. He played four years in the NFL and was selected to the Pro Bowl and First Team All-Pro.