Tillman's widow: Pat's service should never be politicized for division

After Donald Trump shared a tweet using Pat Tillman's service as support for NFL players to stand for the anthem on Monday, the late Army Ranger's widow fired back.

Marie Tillman shared a statement with CNN's Brian Stelter on Monday night criticizing Trump in a message she hopes the president will read.

As a football player and soldier, Pat inspired countless Americans to unify," Tillman wrote. "It is my hope that his memory should always remind people that we must come together. Pat’s service, along with that of every man and woman's service, should never be politicized in a way that divides us. We are too great of a country for that. Those that serve fight for the American ideals of freedom, justice, and democracy. They and their families know the cost of that fight. I know the very personal costs in a way I feel acutely every day."

Tillman added: "The very action of self expression and the freedom to speak from one’s heart - no matter those views - is what Pat and so many other Americans have given their lives for. Even if they didn’t always agree with those views. It is my sincere hope that our leaders both understand and learn from the lessons of Pat's life and death, and also those of so many other brave Americans."

Tillman, a former Arizona Cardinals safety, was killed by friendly fire in 2004 while serving with the army in Afghanistan after he left the NFL to join the military. His widow also criticized Trump in January following the president's travel ban.