On April 20th, the Charleston community came together to honor the 20th anniversary of the passing of American hero, Pat Tillman, with the 20th Annual Pat Tillman Honor Run. The event, which started at 9:00 am at Credit One Stadium, gathered runners and walkers from all over the state for a 4.2-mile course around the island.
The Pat Tillman Honor Run pays tribute to the enduring legacy of Pat Tillman, a former NFL player who made the selfless decision to leave his football career and enlist in the United States Army following the events of September 11th. Tillman’s journey, marked by courage, sacrifice, and service, remains a source of inspiration for millions throughout the nation.
Q: What inspired you to start the Pat Tillman Honor Run in Charleston, and how has it evolved over the years?
A: The inspiration really all comes from Pat’s life and the decisions he made. To quit the NFL making 8 figures as a starting player after 9/11, not do a single interview (humble) and serve the country really stood out to people like me (a USMC veteran). I think a lot of people took notice of that but especially the veteran community because we didn’t see any starting NFL players while we were in the military. So, Pat knew what it took to be an American and what sacrifices had to be made to keep us free. After he tragically died, I reached out to Pat’s brother-in-law and offered anything I could to help with them creating this new Tillman Foundation that still exists today. I had sent him a pretty emotional email about what Pat meant to me and unknowingly he sent it to Pat’s mom, who called me later that day to just talk. Here’s this mother who just lost her son and whomever TV/Radio station in the country was trying to talk to, and she’s out here calling people like me who reached out. That day I dedicated my life to make sure people always would know who Pat was and the Tillman family in general. Just an incredible human being and family.
From its modest beginnings with 25 friends running outside Jackson’s house to now attracting 500-1000 participants each year, the Pat Tillman Honor Run has grown into a significant event in Charleston.
Q: Can you share any memorable moments or stories from previous Pat Tillman Honor Runs in Charleston?
A: Two moments stand out for me. The first year we did it, we didn’t have a real course or a location to do an event so we rented a porta-potty (it was pink!) and dropped it in our front yard so runners could go to the bathroom. It was just funny to me to see that out there, but that run is still one of my favorites because it was all just word of mouth and people who remembered Pat. The second one (selfishly) was in 2018 when my son Chase was the first kid finisher for the run. He really worked hard and got it done. His middle name is Tillman, so it was just a very cool experience for both of us.
Reflecting on the 20th anniversary of Pat Tillman’s passing, Jackson expressed both disbelief and gratitude.
Q: What does the 20th anniversary of Pat Tillman’s passing mean to you and the Charleston community?
A: First, I can’t believe it’s been 20 years since he died. But what is special about year 20 is that we still have just a large group of runners and people who believe in the spirit of Pat and how he lived his life. Most runs kind of fizzle out but this one seems to get stronger every year. I think it says everything about how Pat lived his life.
Looking ahead, Jackson shared his hopes for the Pat Tillman Honor Run to continue impacting and inspiring future generations.
Q: How do you hope the Pat Tillman Honor Run continues to impact and inspire future generations?
A: Our goal now and in the future is to make sure anyone who comes to our run, especially the young kids, walk away knowing who Pat was and what he stood for. As a parent, we all look for heroes and role models for our kids and I can’t think of anyone better than Pat: don’t make your life decisions about money, service for others is the ultimate gift in life and to just know and respect what it takes to make America what it is. There is a cost.
Jackson emphasized the significance of the Tillman Scholars and their vital role in supporting military service members, veterans, and spouses.
Q: Can you tell us more about the Tillman Scholars and the important work they do in supporting military service members, veterans, and spouses?
A: Tillman Scholars are military service members, veterans, and spouses with a high potential for impact as demonstrated through a proven track record of leadership, the continued pursuit of education, and the commitment of their resources to service beyond self. Tillman Scholars are leaders who live selflessly, creating a better world across all industries. Tillman Scholars have served their country and believe their best years of service are ahead of them. They are committed to strengthening communities at home and around the world.
Regarding the uniqueness of the Pat Tillman Honor Run in Charleston, Jackson highlighted the city’s strong support and patriotic spirit.
Q: What are some of the key elements that make the Pat Tillman Honor Run in Charleston unique compared to other locations?
A: We put a lot of effort into our run. Not to say others don’t, but we are very fortunate to have a city and people who live here who want to help and raise awareness. It is kind of crazy to me we get more runners than any other honor run in the US, including some very large cities, but to me, that’s a testament to the city of Charleston and the patriotic feeling they have. But to be clear, every honor run city is a brother/sister to us, and we all try and help each other. But it is a fun little competition too at the same time!
Jackson concluded by expressing his gratitude for the community’s support and involvement in the Pat Tillman Honor Run.
We just want everyone who comes to the event to walk away understanding how Pat lived his life and the sacrifice he made. You can’t attend this event and NOT walk away knowing the answer to the question “who was Pat Tillman”.
In commemorating the 20th Annual Pat Tillman Honor Run, the Charleston community reaffirmed its commitment to honoring Tillman’s legacy and supporting military service members, veterans, and their families. As the event continues to grow and inspire, it serves as a reminder of the profound impact one individual can have on the lives of many.
