Fourth and Long

It's almost too easy to call Pat Tillman an American hero, but that's what he was. Eschewing millions in NFL money to defend the United States against a clear and present enemy, the former Arizona Cardinals defensive back was killed in action 25 miles southwest of a U.S. military base at Khost, Afghanistan. That Tillman died in America's "good war" - the just, decisive action against al Qaeda strongholds in Afghanistan and the toppling of the regime that harbored them - creates a neat and heroic story of war and sacrifice for countless columnists and politicians. And Tillman's life and the manner of his death deserve to be celebrated. What strikes me in this tale is the U.S. Army Sergeant's humility and silence in becoming a highly-trained Ranger. There were no press conferences, no reality shows on his elite training, no embeds along with the NFL star. In fact, Tillman virtually disappeared from the media - until his death made headlines yesterday. Rare are the American celebrities who willingly disappear in the course of risking their lives; Ted Williams and Jimmy Stewart come to mind. Yet, I cannot help but wonder if the human resources necessary are missing in the vital, in-country battle against al Qaeda - are too many brave men and women being wounded and killed in the wasted effort of Iraq, while the "aggressive defense" of the United States in Afghanistan along the border with Pakistan is spread painfully thin? I don't think the unilateralist hawk contingent in the Pentagon has the answer - but a truthful answer is something that men like Pat Tillman deserve.