Former Arizona Cardinals safety Pat Tillman, who courageously walked away from a multi-million dollar contract to fight for his country, would have turned 34 years old today.

Tillman was killed by friendly fire in Afghanistan on April 22, 2004. The cover-up of his tragic death, and the Tillman family's pursuit of the truth, was the subject of "The Tillman Story", a documentary that was released this summer.

Veteran's Day is next Thursday, and NFL teams have already begun honoring those who have bravely served their country.

Earlier this week, Army Staff Sergeant Patrick Nelson of Dawson, Minnesota was named the first NFL-Pat Tillman Military Scholar, a scholarship established by the Pat Tillman Foundation.

"Patrick exemplifies what the Pat Tillman Foundation looks for in a Tillman Military Scholar," Marie Tillman, Pat's wife and Founder and Chair of the Pat Tillman Foundation said. "Through his desire to further his education and continue to give back to his community, he is carrying forward Pat’s legacy of leadership and service. The Pat Tillman Foundation is honored to continue our partnership with the NFL through the creation of the annual NFL-Tillman Military Scholar recognition."

Nelson will be honored before this Sunday's Arizona Cardinals-Minnesota Vikings game, serving as the honorary captain for the Vikings.