Keith Birlem

Keith G. Birlem (May 4, 1915 – May 7, 1943) was an American football end in the National Football League for the Washington Redskins and Chicago Cardinals.

Early life
Birlem was born San Jose, California and attended San Mateo High School.

Football career
Birlem attended and played college football at San José State University, where he played quarterback. He was inducted into their Sports Hall of Fame. He then played in the National Football League for the Chicago Cardinals and Washington Redskins in 1939.

Military career
Birlem, who reached the rank of Major during World War II, was killed trying to land a combat-damaged B-17 Bomber in England in 1943.