By Bill Bradley, contributing editor
Editor's note: This is one of five capsules looking at people who are involved in Pat's Run, the 4.2-mile run to honor late Arizona Cardinals safety Pat Tillman, who died in 2004 by friendly fire while serving as an Army Ranger. The 10th annual Pat's Run is scheduled for Saturday, April 26, ending at the 42-yard line of Arizona State's Sun Devil Stadium. There also will be 34 shadow runs around the country.
Name: Jason Alberts
Age: 38
Occupation: Attorney in New York City
Years running: More than 25 years
How long participating in Pat's Run: Not only has Jason been participating in Pat's Run, he has been coordinating the New York shadow run with two others, Michael Peters and Colin O'Donnell, since 2011. Their shadow run this year is expected to grow to more than 500 participants.
Why is Pat's Run important: "I believe Pat's Run is important because it embodies so many of the attributes this country was founded upon, including community, sacrifice, heroism, veterans and courage. Pat's Run gives everyone, and not just those that knew him personally, a way to continue to honor and celebrate his life. And in New York specifically, when we toe the finish line outside the 9/11 Memorial on behalf of Pat's Run, we are reminded that Pat's Run wouldn't exist at all if not for another cowardly act that led Pat to toe a much more dangerous line."
What does Pat Tillman's legacy mean: "Pat's legacy will forever be remembered in his unwavering commitment to service and action. His selflessness and sacrifice to help others and serve a cause greater than his own self-interest resonates with all Americans. And Pat's legacy continues to remind each of us that we should stand for a cause we believe in and search out meaningful ways to impact positive change for our country and communities."
