The Arizona State Sun Devils donned special uniforms against the Oregon Ducks Thursday night to honor former ASU player, NFL star and Army Ranger Pat Tillman, who was killed by friendly fire during the war in Afghanistan.
The “PT-42” football uniforms are designed to replicate the 1996 ASU season when Tillman and the Sun Devils went to the Rose Bowl, according to ESPN. The uniforms had a military theme, and each had the name “Tillman” on the back instead of the individual player’s name.
“Pat Tillman Foundation and Arizona State University have a proud history of supporting our nation’s veterans and military spouses. This special tribute honors Pat’s example as an athlete, scholar and soldier, while raising awareness and academic support for the Tillman Scholars who are carrying on his legacy,” the fallen soldier’s widow Marie Tillman said in a statement.
The details behind @FootballASU's #PT42 uniforms. They are a replica of the 1996 uniforms. #teamadidasASU pic.twitter.com/aqG3kBjcfD
— Sun Devil Athletics (@TheSunDevils) October 29, 2015
Honored and humbled to wear his name on our backs tonight #PT42 pic.twitter.com/FaNQs6zAij
— Sun Devil Football (@FootballASU) October 29, 2015
https://twitter.com/BeforeFamePics/status/659746072974204928
The undershirts even had the well known Tillman quote, “Passion is what makes life interesting, what ignites our soul, fuels our love and carries our friendships, stimulates our intellect, and pushes our limits.”
The former NFL player enlisted in the military after the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, turning down a multi-million dollar extension to remain with the Arizona Cardinals. He was killed by friendly fire in Sperah, Afghanistan on April 22, 2004.
“We’re grateful to Coach Graham, the players and adidas for empowering these leaders as they continue their service to our country,” Tillman’s widow wrote in the press release.