Tribute: Tillman a real man

Think for a minute about how you define a "real man."

Does that definition include the ability to perform feats of strength? Do you consider someone a "real man" if he scores a lot, or is able to bag the best-looking babes?

In my view, those attributes should not be included in the definition. I've always thought a "real man" was someone with courage, honor and class. Former Arizona Cardinal safety Patrick Tillman is my idea of a "real man."

Tillman was so moved by the events of September 11, 2001, that he volunteered to enlist. The terrorist attacks caused us to feel many emotions, including shock, sadness, grief and anger. Many others, in addition to Tillman, enlisted as a result.

My uncle worked in the Vista Hotel at the World Trade Center. That hotel was reduced to a pile of rubble. Fortunately, he's still around to share the holidays and other good times with us. That's because he was not scheduled to work on September 11. It makes me sick to think that these bastards tried to kill my uncle. Yet, I didn't enlist. I do respect Tillman and others who had the courage to join the war on terrorism.

I'm not saying Tillman's life is worth any more than anyone else's. But, you have to admire what he gave up to serve his country. For instance, millions of dollars from the Cardinals. Those who knew Tillman said fame and fortune weren't all that important to him. Instead, he cared more about his country and his family. Tillman wanted to be an Army ranger, just as his brother Kevin was.

This is one of the few sports stories to make us feel real emotion. Sure, it was great to see Phil Mickelson win his first major at this year's Masters, but that was more drama than emotion. Regardless of how you feel about the war, you can't forget that real people are fighting (and in some cases, dying) for us.

A few months ago, I covered a military homecoming. I'll never forget that day. I couldn't help feeling emotional, seeing how happy the people were to have their loved ones back at home. It was the only time I ever had to hide my eyes between the camera's viewfinder, because I didn't want people to see me tearing up. If you think that makes me a sap, you have a lot of growing up to do.

It's too bad that other athletes don't share his unselfish spirit. Tillman's death makes athletes like Allen Iverson look like even bigger asses. Tillman was fighting for our country, while Iverson was here living the life and whining about practice. Perhaps, fans will think harder now about what makes an athlete a hero and what makes him a zero.

Tillman was a humble guy and he'd probably hate our paying so much attention to him. But, he's worthy of it. He fits the bill of a "real man" and a true American hero.