WASHIGTON, D.C., Aug. 9 (UPI) -- U.S. President George Bush said Thursday he expects a full investigation into the death of former professional football star Pat Tillman in Afghanistan.
Tillman, a U.S. Army Ranger, was killed by friendly fire in 2004, and the Pentagon’s explanation about what happened has changed several times in the interim. Questions recently arose over whether his death was intentional.
"I’ve always admired the fact that a person who was relatively comfortable in life would be willing to take off one uniform and put on another to defend America," Bush told reporters in his first news conference since July 12.
Asked when he learned Tillman’s death had not be the result of fire by the Taliban, Bush said he could not pinpoint the moment but expected a full investigation. He said the best way to honor Tillman is to "find out the truth."
Tillman gave up a lucrative contract with the NFL Arizona Cardinals to volunteer for the Army after the Sept. 11, 2001 attacks.
