Tillman’s journal is one of the most important pieces of firsthand knowledge in the book. Moreover, it’s a symbol of Tillman’s growth as a man, especially after his life-changing fight in high school. As hyper-masculine and physical as Tillman was, he was equally receptive, emotional, thoughtful, and non-reactionary. Many wanted to paint him in a specific light, to further enforce masculine roles within American society and to strengthen nationalistic support of the country’s war. Within his journals, however, Tillman’s true voice prevails, expressing his dictate for the military, for the media, and for those who wanted to make him a symbol for things with which he disagreed.

Tillman’s adherence to virtue and integrity are exceptional. They’re so extreme, in fact, that Krakauer compares him to Nietzsche’s famous philosophical übermensch a next-level, more evolved person. Surrounded by those seeking material gain, Tillman only wished to be as good as possible. He didn’t see himself as better than anyone, eagerly seeking connection and communication with anyone. Tillman repeatedly chose to maintain his integrity in the face of material and social gains. In an unprecedented choice, he turned down a multimillion-dollar contract with the St. Louis Rams to stay with his beloved Arizona Cardinals because they believed in him when no one else did.