Memorial Day is a time when we should reflect on those who paid the ultimate sacrifice for our country. One of the most touching moments at an NFL game is when the National Anthem is being performed and is capped off by an air force fly over. Everyone in the stadium is filled with pride at that moment. Seeing the American flag stretched across the whole football field is both awesome and inspiring. One thing that unites the fans is their appreciation of the sacrifices that the military troops make in order for us to enjoy the freedom that we do.
The marriage of the NFL and patriotism is a truly powerful one. The Pro Football Hall of Fame has recognized that and has a traveling exhibit that honors the stories of tragedy and personal sacrifice that have been made by more than 1,200 players, coaches and administrators that optioned to serve their county and as a result, it interrupted or delayed their pro football careers.
Some of the items in the exhibit include Pat Tillman’s Army Ranger uniform, Hall of Famer Art Donovan’s Army uniform; the career medals of General Earnest Cheatham (pro football’s highest ranking former player), and the Cleveland Browns sideline jacket of Don Steinbrunner who was one of only two NFL players to perish during the Vietnam War.
Pat Tillman is a part of the most recent item to be added to the exhibit. He was in the prime of his career as a safety with the Arizona Cardinals yet he decided to become an Army Ranger. He gave up a life that many people would want to live as a professional athlete. The Arizona Cardinals honored Tillman by erecting a statue of him at the University of Phoenix Stadium.
Two of the most memorable mixes of the NFL and patriotism are after the start of the Gulf War and following the September 11 terrorist attacks in New York City, Washington, D.C., and Pennsylvania. Super Bowl XXV between the New York Giants and Buffalo Bills will forever be remembered for the way that Whitney Houston sang the National Anthem. It was a rendition that brought tears to fans, media types and the players.
The first set of games after the attacks on September 11th were kicked off with the players holding flags during the National Anthem. They honored the real heroes of America by playing a game that would uplift the spirits of fans for that moment.
The relationship between pro football and patriotism is one that sparks a lot of emotion. According to the Pro Football Hall of Fame, over 1,000 NFL players have served in the military. As we enjoy barbecues and fun times with friends, let’s not forget to take time out to give thanks to those who served our country.
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Email Turron: turron@proplayerinsiders.com
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