Salute to Service Award presented by USAA recognizes NFL players, coaches, staff and alumni with proven track record of honoring and supporting military and veteran communities
NEW YORK – Nov. 1, 2024 – The NFL and USAA, an official NFL Salute to Service partner, announced today the 2024 nominees for the annual Salute to Service Award presented by USAA. Each year, the Salute to Service Award recognizes NFL players, coaches, staff and alumni who make exceptional efforts to honor and support military and veteran communities.
“USAA and the NFL founded the Salute to Service Award to celebrate the impactful military appreciation efforts throughout the league and to inspire fans to do the same,” said Major General (Ret.) John Richardson, USAA senior vice president and head of military affairs. “It’s our mission to bring greater awareness to the commitment and sacrifice embodied by the military community, and each Salute to Service nominee sets an example of how we can all show our appreciation in return.
Fans once again have an opportunity to vote for their favorite nominee, all of whom are selected by their respective NFL team, to help determine the award’s three finalists. To see all the nominees and cast your vote, visit NFL.com/SaluteFanVote from now until November 30. Fans can submit one vote per day for their favorite nominee. The three finalists will be announced in January, and the recipient will be recognized at NFL Honors, a primetime awards special to air nationally in February during the week of Super Bowl LIX.
Last year’s award recipient was New England Patriots long-snapper Lieutenant Joe Cardona. As an officer in the U.S. Naval Reserve and active NFL player, Cardona has consistently engaged in initiatives aimed at celebrating and honoring active-duty service members and veterans throughout his ten-year NFL career. Cardona will serve on the award panel that selects the 2024 Salute to Service Award recipient once the three finalists are determined by the fan vote.
Additional panel members include Chad Hennings, Air Force Academy graduate and three-time Super Bowl champion; Jim Mora, Sr., Marine Corps veteran and former NFL head coach; Lenny Bandy, U.S. Marine Corps veteran and NFL Vice President of Security; and Major General (Ret.) John Richardson, USAA Senior Vice President and head of Military Affairs.
As the presenting sponsor of the Salute to Service Award, USAA, a leading provider of insurance, banking and other financial services to U.S. military members, veterans and their families, will contribute $25,000 in the recipient’s name to official aid societies representing all U.S. military branches. The NFL will match USAA’s contribution by donating an additional $25,000 to the awardee’s military or veteran charity of choice.
The Salute to Service Award is part of the NFL and USAA’s year-round commitment to recognize and honor the military and veteran community. Through the Salute to Service initiative, the NFL and its 32 teams come together to honor, empower and connect with service members, veterans and their families. Salute to Service will come to life in NFL stadiums across the country during Weeks 10-12 of the regular season through on-field branding and other game day activations. Visit NFL.com/Salute to learn more.
Below is the list of nominees for the 2024 Salute to Service Award presented by USAA:
| Team | Nominee |
| Arizona Cardinals | DeeJay Dallas, Running Back DeeJay Dallas, Arizona Cardinals running back, embodies each tenant of the NFL’s Salute to Service initiative to honor, empower and connect service members, veterans and their families. DeeJay Dallas spends time honoring the sacrifice made by homeless vets at MANA House. DeeJay Dallas founded the DeeJay Dallas Foundation that connects the community with homeless veterans and their families. Through his non-profit, DeeJay Dallas and his team improve the quality of life for children and adults. DeeJay recently partnered with the USO and NFL players to host a virtual fundraiser that raised $100,000 to empower service members’ families that are impacted by the deployment of loved ones supporting U.S. Military operations in Europe. He further empowered the community by serving as an ambassador for the NFL by working with the city of Springfield to build a Purple Heart Museum, which will create a lasting legacy for the league and our nation’s veterans and service members. DeeJay Dallas supports veteran activations in Maricopa County, increasing awareness around the military community and NFL’s Salute to Service initiative. These memorable activations showcase Salute to Service, reaching near-viral levels of social media engagement, averaging 100k social media interactions per event. |
| Atlanta Falcons | Chris Millman, Team StaffChris Millman, the Senior Vice President of Sports Philanthropy & Community Engagement, is in his 18th season with the Atlanta Falcons and 24th season in the NFL. Chris’s top priority is giving back the nation’s active-duty military, veterans and military families. Under Chris’s leadership, the Atlanta Falcons have engaged with Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors for over ten years resulting in the Falcons holding the longest ongoing NFL partnership with the Salute to Service partner. Every year, the Falcons host TAPS families for VIP trips to Atlanta, Falcons away games, and international games. The Falcons have also hosted one of the largest gatherings of TAPS families ever with 94 total families visiting Atlanta in one weekend. Millman leads impactful engagement with the USO hosting several Falcons team trips to bases worldwide. Falcons executives, players and staff have visited military members in Guam, Hawaii, Iraq, Kuwait, Bulgaria, Romania and Germany. Domestically, Millman has led multiple trips to bases throughout the United States. The Falcons have visited bases in the states of Washington, Arizona and Florida. In addition to visiting bases nationwide, the Falcons have visited Walter Reed Hospital in Washington D.C. several times. With Millman’s oversight, the Falcons established the Veterans Community Fund. The fund is an associate-led committee comprised of employees that have a close military connection. The committee’s guiding theme is helping veterans thrive after military service, giving $1M in grants annually. Most recently, Millman led efforts by the organization to provide the USO a $1M grant to support an initiative bringing USO centers to all U.S. aircraft carriers. Millman has worked tirelessly to lead the Atlanta Falcons deep-rooted military efforts in the Atlanta community and beyond. |
| Baltimore Ravens | Steve Clagett Jr., Team Staff Steve Clagett Jr. leads the Ravens’ character assessment of NFL prospects and manages the processes for leadership development and works to enhance, protect and sustain a strong culture spanning both football and business operations. Steve is a Navy Reserve officer, active-duty Navy SEAL veteran, Pat Tillman scholar, and avid volunteer for the military community. Prior to joining the Ravens, he served as a Navy SEAL officer for 13 years deploying eight times across the globe. In 2020, Steve was appointed by the President as a White House fellow; a one-year non-partisan assignment. He rose to the rank of Commander in the Navy Reserve. A Pat Tillman scholar, Steve is amongst a select group of individuals forever honored by the foundation for their service, intellect, leadership and impact. Steve served as a senior advisor to the assistant secretary for veterans’ employment and training service at the department of labor. He is a commissioner with Maryland’s veteran affairs home and volunteers with Farming 4 Hunger, a nonprofit that raises produce for local food banks. As a member of the Baltimore Ravens, Steve regularly volunteers at numerous Salute to Service events including the annual ‘Flags with the Flock’ program celebrating and paying tribute to the life and service of fallen soldiers each Memorial Day. Steve annually volunteers at the Ravens’ youth football and military combine creating a fun-filled football skills clinic exclusively for children with parents that serve in the military. While Steve showed his greatest admiration for our country by personally serving, he continues to embody a life of service and volunteerism for the military community daily and is truly deserving of the NFL’s Salute to Service Award. |
| Buffalo Bills | Matthew Smiley, Special Teams Coach Matthew Smiley, Special Teams Coordinator of the Buffalo Bills, embodies each tenant of the NFL’s Salute to Service initiative to honor, empower and connect service members, veterans, and their families. Prior to his coaching career and just months before the attacks on 9/11, Coach Smiley served in the U.S. Air Force for four years as a maintenance officer. While on active duty, Smiley was deployed to combat zones four times in support of Operation Enduring Freedom and received the U.S. Air Force Commendation Medal for his efforts. In between deployments, he served as a football coach for specialists at the University of North Dakota. Smiley’s father, John Smiley, also served in the Air Force and retired as a colonel. Since Smiley joined the Bills, he has contributed military initiatives in the Buffalo community. In 2023, Smiley joined 49 local veterans on the Bills’ annual honor flight trip to Washington D.C. to visit national memorials and pay tribute to their service and sacrifice. Matthew and his wife, Marissa, consistently support Western New York Heroes during the holiday season with adopt-a-family programs. WNY Heroes support veterans and their families with essential services and resources. Coach Smiley’s dedication to the military community and his own service truly embodies the NFL Salute to Service initiative. |
| Carolina Panthers | Austin Corbett, Center During his seven-year NFL career, Carolina Panthers center Austin Corbett has consistently honored, empowered and connected with the military community. In 2022, Austin created a special bond with Brian Conwell, a disabled army veteran who lost both his legs in 2014 while serving at Ft. Riley, Kansas. Against all odds and while battling combat-related mental challenges, Brian learned to walk and eventually competed in the Paralympics, earning four gold medals. Austin honors Brian and all veterans through recognizing the Wounded Warrior Project during the NFL’s My Cause My Cleats initiative. Austin’s meaningful friendship with Conwell was the catalyst for Austin’s unwavering support of the military community. Austin participates in pregame field visits with the Panthers Row of Honor guests, honoring service members and purple heart recipients attending each game. Austin supports Veterans Bridge Home in providing Christmas shopping assistance to veteran families. He spent hours with Merging Vets and Players to uplift veterans transitioning to civilian life. In his words: “It’d get very emotional at times but to see the success stories of people coming out of dark holes because of community support was incredible.” Austin connects to the military community events including the Oorah Hooah 7-on-7 football tournament and military training camp visits. He travels to military bases in the Carolinas, sharing gratitude and boosting troop morale. The Carolina Panthers are pleased to nominate Austin Corbett as their 2024 Salute to Service Award nominee. |
| Chicago Bears | Travis Homer, Running BackThe Chicago Bears nominate running back Travis Homer for the 2024 Salute to Service Award for his commitment to our United States service members, veterans and their family members. For the 2024 season, Travis purchased and donated tickets for every home game to a military family through the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors, as part of the Bears home team hand-off ticket donation program. TAPS is the national nonprofit organization providing compassionate care and comprehensive resources to all those grieving a death in the military or veteran community. Travis has extensive family military ties and honors his own family members through his support. His father served in the United States Army, while his grandfather, uncles and other extended family have served as well. Travis currently has two cousins serving in the United States Navy. Travis is grateful for the sacrifice of our service members. The Chicago Bears are honored to nominate Travis Homer as our 2024 Salute to Service nominee. |
| Cincinnati Bengals | Bryan Wilburn, Team Staff Bryan Wilburn, Stadium Service Technician at the Cincinnati Bengals’ Paycor Stadium, embodies several core tenants of the NFL’s Salute to Service initiative that connects military appreciation with the game of football. Wilburn served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1993-97, stationed at Camp Lejeune in Jacksonville, North Carolina. He deployed twice with the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit, serving aboard the USS Nassau and later, the USS Portland. While deployed, Wilburn supported Operation Assured Response, a stabilization and evacuation effort for the U.S. Embassy in Monrovia, Liberia. He served in Operation Deny Flight, which provided support to NATO’s no-fly zone enforcement over Bosnia and Herzegovina. He supported Operation Joint Endeavor, a NATO-led multinational peace enforcement effort. Wilburn was awarded the Navy Achievement Medal in recognition of his efforts throughout Exercise Destined Glory, a deployment where U.S. Marines trained with forces from nine countries. During the exercise, he conducted critical repairs on a fleet of earthmovers and forklifts and was commended for his initiative in identifying potential mechanical issues. Wilburn applied his hands-on military experience to his role at Paycor Stadium, where he has worked since its opening in 2000. During the early years, Wilburn constructed the building’s garage from the ground up. He is responsible for developing a fleet of approximately 130 pieces of agricultural equipment. Over the past 25 years, Bryan fabricated numerous projects that contribute to the stadium’s operational and maintenance needs. On game days, Wilburn establishes the team’s sideline, ensuring the heat-benches and cool-zones function properly. Wilburn remains in close contact with members of the 22nd MEU nearly three decades later, and frequently makes time to reunite to celebrate milestones and relive memories from his days in the service. Wilburn and his wife, Robyn, have been married for nearly 20 years. They have two daughters, Claire and Rachel. |
| Cleveland Browns | Shaun Huls, Team Staff The Cleveland Browns are proud to nominate Shaun Huls, the Cleveland Browns’ Director of High Performance, for the 2024 Salute to Service Award. From 2006 – 2013, Huls served as the strength, conditioning and injury prevention programs’ coordinator with U.S. Navy SEAL teams. He served as the combative coordinator for U.S. Naval Special Warfare. Shaun has brought this passion for care and development from his experience in work with the military to the Browns where he serves as the director of high performance. Huls is currently a partner and advisor with Applied Performance Sciences (APS). Founded by U.S. Navy SEALs and developed in conjunction with Olympic and professional sports coaches, APS delivers content and training that are applicable to any environment in which peak performance is desired. Huls and the team have worked alongside experts from the NFL, NCAA, Olympic sport and military special operations to examine factors that lead to and maximize performance. Huls is a member of the Mission Critical Team Institute, focused on understanding and improving how individuals and teams learn to navigate uncertainty. Shaun’s dedication to continue improving human performance inside the NFL and across organizations who collaborate with the military community exhibits the Salute to Service mission. Shaun is a graduate of the University of Nebraska, where he was later named the head baseball and assistant football strength and conditioning coach. The Browns are proud to have Shaun as a member of our coaching staff and are honored to nominate him for the 2024 Salute to Service Award. |
| Dallas Cowboys | Zack Martin, Guard Dallas Cowboys Guard Zack Martin personifies each value of the NFL’s Salute to Service initiative to honor, empower and connect service members, veterans and their families. Martin honors the sacrifices and stories of Medal of Honor recipients by supporting the National Medal of Honor Museum and its mission to inspire America and create a future generation of character driven leaders. The Medal of Honor is the highest recognition for valor in combat that a service member can receive. While over 40 million have served in the armed forces, fewer than 4,000 have received the Medal of Honor, with just 66 recipients living today. Martin annually represents medal recipients during the My Cause My Cleats initiative and connects other teammates to the cause through his participation. His influence led the entire Dallas Cowboys offensive line to champion the cause on their cleats as well as the entire Dallas Cowboys coaching staff. The outreach impacts Martin personally through a unique friendship forged with medal recipient U.S. Army Retired Captain Florent Groberg. In 2022, Groberg helped with Martin’s NMOHM cleat unboxing. In return, Martin surprised Groberg with his own pair of customized Nike Air Force Ones and tickets to the Super Bowl. Martin is a vocal advocate for the NMOHM and looks to empower others through the museum’s effort to share the values of courage, sacrifice, commitment, integrity, citizenship and patriotism. Martin has attended several key moments of success for the museum construction including a hardhat tour with the offensive line and a Veteran’s Day appreciation lunch, thanking recipients and recognizing laborers for their hard work and dedication. |
| Denver Broncos | Keith Bishop, Broncos Legend and StaffThe Denver Broncos are proud to nominate Broncos’ legend (offensive lineman, 1980-89) and current Vice President of Security, Keith Bishop, for the Salute to Service Award in recognition of his commitment to honor, empower and connect service members, veterans and their families. After his retirement from a ten-year NFL career, Keith worked in federal law enforcement as a special agent for the United States Department of Justice Drug Enforcement Administration for 20 years. He was assigned as the DEA Assistant Regional Director/Assistant Special Agent in Charge and Country Attache at the DEA office in Kabul, Afghanistan (2008-2012). In his current role, Keith maintains working relationships with local, state and federal law enforcement as well as fire departments, emergency response personnel, military and the intelligence community to help safeguard the Broncos organization and enhance security training opportunities. His personal support for the military reaches far into the community, as Bishop supports military-serving organizations including Freedom Service Dogs (FSD) and the Center for American Values. FSD transforms lives by providing custom-trained service dogs to assist veterans, first responders and active-duty service members who have post-traumatic stress disorder, traumatic brain injury, and loss of limbs or mobility due to combat-related injuries. The Center for American Values’ mission is to honor the sacrifices made by civilians and veterans alike to help sustain America’s values of honor, integrity and patriotism. Bishop is a committed board member for the center and was a featured speaker for the On Values speaker series in February of 2024. For these reasons and more, Keith has earned the Broncos’ nomination for the 2024 Salute to Service Award. |
| Detroit Lions | Carl Jones II, Team StaffCarl Jones II has supported the Detroit Lions as a freelance photographer for the past four seasons. Carl served in the United States Army with over 20 years of combined military and civilian service, including roles as a petroleum lab specialist and unit supply specialist. Currently, he serves as the logistics manager for the U.S. Army Tank-automotive and Armament Command in Warren, Michigan, where he supports the Family of Medium Tactical Vehicles platform. This system is the Army’s primary mover of troops and equipment, directly impacting countless soldiers and their missions. During a deployment in Iraq, Carl worked with unit personnel to acquire essential parts for downed vehicles, allowing missions to continue successfully. In his military service, Carl reached the rank of Staff Sergeant as a petroleum laboratory specialist. At each duty station, he was responsible for testing the fuel samples of all fuel units, including aviation units, to ensure the quality of fuel that powered critical missions. While deployed in Kosovo, he extended this responsibility across southeast Europe. One of his most notable accomplishments was running fuel tests for a tanker reserved for Air Force One during President George W. Bush’s visit. During hometown hero recognitions at Ford Field, he not only captures special moments but shares heartfelt messages and appreciation with honorees, reflecting his enduring commitment to the military community and his dedication to service. Carl Jones II embodies the spirit of the Salute to Service Award. With 20 years of military and civilian service, he has continuously supported soldiers and their families, both on and off the field. His leadership and devotion continue to leave a profound and lasting impact on the military community. |
| Green Bay Packers | Lukas Van Ness, Defensive End The Green Bay Packers are nominating defensive end Lukas Van Ness for the 2024 Salute to Service Award in recognition of his commitment to honor, empower and connect service members, veterans and their families. Lukas began to make an impact on the military community as soon as he entered the league. During his rookie season, he connected with local veterans through a Huddle for Heroes event, answering questions and spending time with the veterans to personally thank them for their service. He also wrote letters to be sent to active-duty military members to encourage and empower them while on deployment. During the Packers’ 2024 military appreciation week, Lukas will assist a family grieving the loss of a service member in assembling and painting a commemorative flag to honor their fallen soldier. At the end of the event, he will present the family with a gift on behalf of the Packers. Growing up with several family members that have served in the military, including his grandfather who earned the rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the U.S. Army during his 27-year career, Lukas learned from a young age how important it is to honor the men and women who give so much to our country. Lukas continues to use his platform to salute the bravery and sacrifice of service members, veterans and their families. |
| Houston Texans | Marc Lewis, Team StaffThe Houston Texans have a longstanding commitment to honoring those who serve our country and for the team’s Director of Applied Sports Science Marc Lewis, Salute to Service is deeply personal. Lewis, who is in his second season with the team, overcame unimaginable childhood adversity to be able to stand on the sidelines today. Born in West Virginia, Lewis grew up in the foster care system and endured many challenges including homelessness. He encountered a military recruiter as a teenager and upon enlisting in the Army, he quickly rose in the ranks and honorably served our country in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. He leveraged his military experience to attend graduate and post graduate academies, earning a master’s degree and a PhD in exercise science, seizing every opportunity with determination and sense of gratitude. Lewis says the military shaped his perspective on life and taught him the importance of having a better mindset. In his specialized unit, he learned what it meant to work toward a collective purpose. The sense of togetherness and brotherhood is what he enjoys most about football, the Texans, and his current role. While everyone has their why, Lewis says each person in the building is working toward the same goal. Being able to use data and information to support player health on the field with people he considers brothers is incredibly rewarding. As a veteran, Lewis continues to stay connected to those he served with and enjoys the opportunity to speak to veteran populations about the benefits of health and wellness as well as life after a military career. |
| Indianapolis Colts | Trey Mock, Team Staff Trey Mock, who performs as the Indianapolis Colts’ mascot Blue, has consistently used his platform to honor, empower and entertain service members, veterans and their families over his 19 seasons with the team. Mock has visited 33 military bases in Asia and Europe, as well as Alaska and Hawaii, bringing joy and a slice of home to thousands of active-duty service members. When Mock visits a base, he makes an intentional effort to not just put on a show as Blue, but to have genuine, meaningful conversations with the servicemen and servicewomen he encounters – whether they are fans of the Colts or not. He strives to see our active-duty military members for who they are, bravely serving their country and selflessly sacrificing so much while being away from home. The variety show put on by Blue brings laughter and comfort to service members across the globe. Mock also created a custom Blue challenge coin he gives to service members to honor their actions and sacrifices. Mock frequently keeps in touch with the service members and families he meets through his travels as Blue, checking in on them not as the Colts’ mascot, but as a citizen deeply appreciative for their service. At home, Mock works with several organizations, including Gold Star Family, Blue Star Family, Folds of Honor and Flags of Valor, to provide laughter, memories and support to families of military members serving overseas as well as veterans. Mock, during his time with the Colts, helped organize a surprise baby shower for a couple expecting twins while the father was stationed overseas. |
| Jacksonville Jaguars | Travon Walker, Defensive EndTravon is extremely active in the military community in Jacksonville. During his rookie season, Travon visited Mayport Naval Station in Jacksonville to tour a ship and take the opportunity to thank our active-duty service members for their sacrifice. Travon is an avid supporter of the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors where he most recently supported the Sullivan family. Anita Sullivan, the surviving spouse of CE3 Michael Sullivan, USN, shared that their oldest son, Drew, and his girlfriend were involved in a horrific car accident that has put Drew through multiple surgeries, spending weeks in the hospital and rehab. Travon surprised the family with a shopping spree. Additionally, during the Jaguars military appreciation day, Travon took it upon himself to thank Sgt. David James McLaughlin Jr., a combat veteran who served during Afghanistan, for his service. Sgt. McLaughlin was invited to the stadium and Travon presented David with an autograph jersey before surprising the sergeant with the real reason he was here – to receive a new home! Travon Walker grew up with military and U.S. Marine Corps beliefs instilled at a young age. Not only did Walker’s father serve in the USMC during Operation Desert Storm, but his grandfather served in the army during the Korean War. Travon’s father believes he’s the player he is today because of his drive to compete and be the absolute best in everything he does; traits that Travon would have picked up from his father and military family. |
| Kansas City Chiefs | Mitch Holthus, Team Staff The longest tenured and most decorated play-by-play voice in the history of the Kansas City Chiefs, Mitch Holthus was born to do two things: become an industry benchmark as one of the NFL’s most recognizable broadcasters and ardently support and honor those with ties to the armed forces. Holthus was born in Fort Lewis, Washington, while his father, El Dean, was serving in the U.S. Army. As a result, he has a focus centered on honoring, empowering and connecting to military members and their families. Holthus empowers military members thanks to his work with groups including The Battle Within, an organization whose mission is to break down barriers and provide all veterans and first responders the mental and behavioral health support they need. Additionally, he developed an active relationship at Fort Leonard Wood, visiting with the 5th Engineering Battalion to combat suicide. He honors the military with visits to Leavenworth National Cemetery, and by sharing stories with various Gold Star families and active-duty troops. He has an uncanny ability to connect those serving our great country to their beloved Chiefs. He’s hosted various goodwill visits at military bases throughout the region including serving as the emcee of multiple draft day celebrations at Whiteman Air Force Base and Fort Riley. He gives remarks at the United States Army Command and General Staff College. These initiatives, along with countless other interactions with those serving our country, are some of the many reasons that Mitch Holthus is the Chiefs nominee for the 2024 Salute to Service Award presented by USAA. |
| Las Vegas Raiders | Robert Spillane, Linebacker Robert Spillane, linebacker for the Raiders, honors, empowers, and connects with the U.S. military community. Robert and his wife joined a Raiders contingent visiting Nellis Air Force Base to engage with 500 Air Force families to help pick out their trees for the holidays. They decorated Raiders themed ornaments, signed autographs, took pictures, and enjoyed hot chocolate and holiday treats. “We’re very thankful to be here in honor of Raider Nation, giving back to our troops who do so much to take care of us and to keep us safe,” said Spillane. Robert led and encouraged his teammates to attend the Day of Gratitude at Allegiant Stadium. The Day of Gratitude is a resource fair focused on connecting veterans to health, social, and financial services that empower them toward life sustainability and improved life outcomes. Up to 15,000 veterans and military members attended the day filled with honor, joy, and community. The event featured meet-and-greets with Raiders players, 42 booths of support services, and distributed approximately two million dollars of goods including shoes, toys, and household items. Another one million dollars of goods will be distributed to veterans and military families who could not attend. Robert stated, “I am honored…to honor our military and veteran heroes for their service to our country. I play football because of the freedoms I enjoy because of sacrifices made by our veterans and military.” |
| Los Angeles Chargers | Morgan Fox, Defensive EndChargers’ defensive lineman Morgan Fox has dedicated his philanthropic efforts to serving veteran and active-duty military communities. Morgan grew up in the military community and experienced the sacrifice of service members and their families first-hand. During the offseason, the team traveled to U.S. Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, where Morgan addressed the military members and their families in attendance prior to practice. This November, Morgan will host a chalk talk with 100 warriors from the nonprofit Wounded Warrior Project, speaking on the challenges of overcoming adversity. Morgan participated in the Chargers Community Corner program to provide 100 club level game tickets to military and Veteran focused nonprofits. He celebrated the grand re-opening of the U.S. Vets Long Beach dining hall renovation and served meals to over 300 veterans. For the past two seasons, he has hosted warriors from the Wounded Warrior Project at the Chargers practice facility, supported our nation’s fallen heroes through the nonprofit Tragedy Assistant Program for Survivors, and talked about the parallels between elite athletes and veterans with the Pat Tillman Foundation. During Salute to Service month over the past two years, Morgan has created his own merchandise with all proceeds going to the Headstrong Project and the Wounded Warrior Project. On the field, Morgan has raised awareness and funds through My Cause My Cleats for nonprofit organizations including Wounded Warrior Project, the Headstrong Project, Merging Vets and Players, One Tribe Foundation and War Heroes on Water. These organizations support and assist veterans in overcoming mental and emotional struggles that they face after their service has ended. Morgan ongoing support of our nation’s military and veterans has never wavered and will continue far beyond his playing career. |
| Los Angeles Rams | Matthew Stafford, Quarterback Over the course of Matthew Stafford’s 16-year NFL career, he has impacted a wide range of non-profits and supported many causes, but one constant has been his commitment to the military community. Since joining the Rams, Matthew has supported American Red Cross’ Holiday Mail for Heroes campaign and was featured on a holiday card that read, “From the players on the football field to the heroes protecting our country and freedoms. Thank you for your service.” The Rams, including Matthew’s wife, Kelly, visited local schools to engage kids in writing holiday messages of thanks for those serving our country. The cards were then collected and mailed to military members serving domestically and overseas as well as veterans living the United States. He generously hosted a variety of active-duty military members from California military bases, veterans from Merging Vets and Players, and the Gary Sinise Foundation at games. This season, for the Rams Salute to Service game on Veteran’s Day, Matthew will be hosting a group of young people who are enlisting in the United States military. Additionally, the Stafford’s worked with the Rams to create an “Honor Row” and will be hosting a group of active-duty military for the Salute to Service game. The Honor Row of military members will be introduced to the crowd, providing them with the recognition they deserve in front of 70,000 fans. Each honored individual’s name, rank, and branch of service will be displayed on the infinity screen and the decorated seats will be shown on screen. Beyond what has been outlined above, over the years, Matthew and Kelly Stafford have quietly supported military and veterans on their own without any fanfare or publicity. |
| Miami Dolphins | Blake Ferguson, Long SnapperInspired by his WWII Navy veteran great grandfather and his U.S. Air Force veteran best friend, Blake Ferguson fostered a deep military appreciation throughout his life. Since the Miami Dolphins drafted him in 2020, Blake has dedicated his time and energy to supporting military initiatives. In 2021 and 2022, Blake hosted an annual military appreciation barbecue event to honor active-duty military members and veterans in south Florida during Salute to Service. In partnership with United Way of Broward County’s mission united and the Miami Dolphins food relief program, Blake distributed 800 Thanksgiving meals to Broward County’s military veterans and active reserve members. He attended the annual U.S. Coast Guard Air Station Miami flag football game between officers and enlisted to cheer on active-duty service members and visit the air station. He supports the Miami Dolphins TAPS families and continues to seek every avenue to support the United States military from team and individual opportunities to messages of encouragement through social and digital media. In the 2023 offseason, Blake was invited to visit Fort Jackson with US Army recruiters to learn more about the basic combat training experience and to immerse himself in day-to-day life and connecting with those on base. In 2023 and 2024, Blake kicked off training camp by inviting veterans with Wounded Warrior Project to a VIP Day. After visiting Big Dog Ranch Rescue and learning about the costs associated with training veteran service animals, Blake donated to help cover care and training for one of the dogs. While on a preseason road game to Tampa Bay, Blake spent his off time visiting the U.S. Coast Guard Base. Throughout his tenure with the Dolphins, Blake has also joined multiple initiatives to surprise south Florida veterans with a brand-new air-conditioning units in gratitude for their service and to uplift local veterans with game tickets. |
| Minnesota Vikings | Aaron Jones, Sr., Running BackAaron Jones, Sr., embodies each tenant of the NFL’s Salute to Service initiative to honor, empower and connect service members, veterans and their families. Aaron honors current and former U.S. Military service members including his late father, Alvin Jones, Sr., who served 29 years in the U.S. Army and mother, Vurgess, who served 27 years in the U.S. Army — both of them are retiring as sergeants major. Aaron honors his older brother, Xavier, who serves in the U.S. Air Force through his A&A All the Way Foundation. Founded in 2020 by Aaron and his twin brother Alvin, Jr., the nonprofit emphasizes the support of youth in military families. Aaron’s commitment to the military community connects families and young people who have experienced the difficulties of deployment, regular change and relocation, and the uncertainties that often accompany military life. Aaron calls on his own childhood experience, when his parents were deployed to Iraq, and he saw firsthand the sacrifices made to serve one’s country. A&A All the Way holds an annual gala to raise money that empowers military families by providing them with necessary resources and care. Aaron and his family have donated their own time and resources to provide military families with joy-filled experiences, such as trips to the zoo or movie nights. Aaron over the years has participated in Huddle for Heroes events, writing letters to active-duty military members, and meet-and-greets for T.A.P.S. families who have lost loved ones from the military or veteran community. Less than two months after signing with Minnesota in free agency, Aaron took part in a visit to the local United Heroes League and connected with young people and military members. |
| New England Patriots | David Andrews, CenterSince joining the New England Patriots as a rookie in 2015, David Andrews has dedicated much of his community outreach efforts to honor, empower and connect with the true patriots of our nation. He has honored service members at the annual New England Patriots Foundation pinning ceremony for Vietnam veterans, helping thank and pin the brave men and women who served our country during the Vietnam conflict. He has consistently honored military-related causes through My Cause My Cleats, supporting organizations such as Warrior Dogs and Massachusetts Fallen Heroes. He empowers the military community through his efforts, having raised thousands of dollars as a result of auctioning off his cleats. David has made a deep impact through the connections he has made with the New England military community. He began forming connections in his rookie year when he visited the VA hospital in Providence, R.I. At this visit, he spoke to patients, signed autographs and most importantly thanked the veterans for their service. Since that visit, he has done countless community events focused on the military. He has attended baby showers for military mothers and brought baby boxes filled with diapers and other baby items to Fort Devens in Massachusetts. He led numerous youth football clinics on local military bases. Whenever there are service members or military families who are guests of the Patriots Foundation at training camp, he consistently makes time to greet and thank them. From the children of service members to those who are active duty, all the way to elderly veterans, David has connected with multiple generations a part of the military community. His dedication to giving back to those who have served make him an excellent candidate for this award. |
| New Orleans Saints | Nate Degen, Team Staff and U.S. Army Captain Nate Degen, U.S. Army Captain, joined the New Orleans Saints through the DoD’s Skillbridge program, as a member of their staff in the club’s business operations division as the Saints Fan Engagement Coordinator. Captain Degen, an established Army helicopter pilot, has successfully transitioned from a military career to the world of sports management. Following a successful career in the Army, including serving as a Team Army athlete at the 2024 Department of Defense Warrior Games at ESPN Wide World of Sports at Walt Disney World, Captain Degen brings his remarkable resilience, adaptability, and leadership skills to the Saints. Having sustained multiple injuries, he underwent recovery at the Fort Belvoir Soldier Recovery Unit (SRU), where he prepared for a future beyond the Army. Captain Degen shared encouraging words with other soldiers who may one day need the SRU. His commitment to excellence, honed through adaptive sports and recovery, positions him as a valuable asset to the organization. Captain Degen’s role with the New Orleans Saints involves enhancing the fan experience, leveraging his background as an operations manager and skills to foster a deeper connection between the Saints and their supporters. His experiences and insights from his military career bring a fresh perspective to the Saints, enriching the overall fan experience. In addition to his new role, Captain Degen will represent Team Army at the upcoming 2025 Warrior Games in Colorado Springs, Colorado, competing in various events including archery, air rifle, shot put, and discus. His participation is a testament to his enduring spirit and commitment to excellence. |
| New York Giants | Wellington Mara, Late Owner For our 100th Season, we posthumously nominate Wellington Mara, the late New York Giants owner, for the NFL’s Salute to Service Award after he spent his life honoring, empowering and connecting with service members, veterans and their families. Mara’s only long-term absence from the Giants in his 81-year affiliation was when he served with the U.S. Navy during World War II. As a lieutenant, he was in command of 30 men and spent 40 months at sea between the USS Santee, an escort carrier that engaged in combat with enemy naval forces in the South Atlantic, and the USS Randolph, which was stationed in the south pacific. Lieutenant Mara earned numerous honors during his service, including the American Theater Medal, the European–African–Middle Eastern Medal (two Service Stars), the Asiatic–Pacific Medal (five Service Stars), the Philippine Liberation Medal, the World War II Victory Medal, and the Presidential Unit Medal. In 1945, Mr. Mara was relieved from active duty and was promoted to lieutenant commander in 1949. He retired from the U.S. Naval Reserve in 1956. These experiences became the driving force behind the franchise’s military-related programming over the decades. The Giants empower each branch of the military community through events, initiatives, and contributions. In fact, the Giants hosted wounded veterans at games during World War II. Relationships have always been important to Mara, who actively connected with those he served alongside and maintained contact with them throughout his post-war life. Football has always been a way for people, especially military members, to connect over a shared love of the game, the New York Giants have Wellington Mara to thank for that. |
| New York Jets | Tony Richardson, NFL LegendTony Richardson, New York Jets Legend, embodies each tenant of the NFL’s Salute to Service initiative to honor, empower and connect service members, veterans, and their families. Tony honors the sacrifices made by his father Ben Richardson, US Army Sergeant Major and Vietnam veteran, Purple Heart Recipient, and drill sergeant. His sister, Shon Richardson, was a Master Sergeant for 28 years with four deployments. To honor them, Tony volunteers his time supporting and meeting with military personnel. During Fleet Week, Tony coached military flag football teams and flew out to a Navy ship to spend the night on board having dinner, interacting with the sailors, and holding football chalk talks. Tony packed meals with AmeriCorps on September 11 alongside Roger Goodell and other NFL staff. Tony has served in the Honorary Commander Program whose goal is to connect and expose the local community to the armed services, and promote public awareness of the missions, policies, and programs of the United States Air Force and an understanding of the Department of Defense. Through this program, Tony was paired with the U.S. Army ROTC at Joint Base McGuire Dix in Lakehurst, New Jersey. The intent is to create one-on-one opportunities to inform and educate local community leaders about the missions of the installation and the United States military. Tony has partnered with the USO and toured Okinawa to empower service members that are deployed. Tony has worked with MVP (Merging Veterans and Players) which empowers veterans and former professional athletes by connecting them after the uniform comes off and providing them with a new team to assist with transition, promote personal development, and show them they are never alone. |
| Philadelphia Eagles | Lane Johnson, Right TackleA five-time Pro Bowler and four-time All-Pro selection, Eagles right tackle Lane Johnson has been one of the league’s most consistent and productive players over the past decade. As important as he has been and continues to be for the Eagles on the field, it is his long history of serving active-duty military members, veterans, and their families that speaks to his great character and leadership. As the team’s 2023 Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year nominee, Johnson designated the Bucks County-based Travis Manion Foundation as his charity of choice. The foundation, named in honor of First Lieutenant Travis Manion who was killed in action in 2007, offers several programs for veterans and the families of fallen soldiers. His support for the foundation led to his involvement with the Gold Star Family initiative where he meets with families the night before every road game and provides them with game tickets for the next day. In July 2023, Johnson stepped up and made a very generous donation to help fund – and ultimately save – the Veteran Golfers Association’s annual state championship, which ran into a financing issue. Three years earlier, in December 2020 while rehabbing from ankle surgery, Johnson met with military families through Operation Homefront and provided them with turkeys, gift cards, and Rita’s Italian Ice. It was his way of helping military families so they could enjoy an even bigger and better holiday season in the communities that they live in and serve. The former first-round draft pick is trained by a Marine veteran and also works out with a former Navy SEAL. A three-time team captain, Johnson’s exceptional efforts to honor and support military personnel have also included frequent visits to the Philadelphia VA Medical Center and advocacy around mental health awareness for active and retired service members. |
| Pittsburgh Steelers | Rocky Bleier, NFL LegendRocky Bleier played 11 seasons for the Steelers, selected in the 16th round of the 1968 NFL Draft. He was a member of the four Super Bowl teams in the 1970s and is a member of the Steelers Hall of Honor. A year after he was drafted by the Steelers, he was drafted into the United States Army and left football to fight in the Vietnam War. Bleier received the support of Steelers founder Art Rooney Sr. throughout his time in Vietnam, and upon his return with a Bronze Star and Purple Heart, Rooney allowed him the opportunity to work his way back onto the field, which he eventually did for the 1971 season. After a successful NFL career, Bleier devoted his life to helping others, especially those in the military. Bleier wrote a book about the battle to come back from his injury called ‘Fighting Back: The Rocky Bleier Story,’ which was made into a movie in 1980. He released a special edition of the book to honor the Fighting Back for Veterans campaign. The new release, titled ‘Fighting Back: The Inspirational Journey of American Hero Rocky Bleier,’ helped raise thousands of dollars to support military veterans’ groups, including Veterans Leadership, Joint Training Facility, and Legacies Alive. He currently supports numerous veteran causes, including Operation Strong Vet, Victory Media, and Nationally Owned Veterans Business Association (NaVOBA). He has been involved with the Wounded Warriors Project, Warriors2Citizens, Veterans Job Fair, Operation Check Point, Homeless Vet Run, Vietnam Veterans of America, The Crucible, National Veterans Wheelchair Games, SW Veterans Center, and Veterans Leadership Program. In 2022, he connected with the Veterans Leadership Program and presented vehicles to two Pittsburgh veterans. Bleier truly believes in continuing to empower others which is why he is the founder and managing member of RBVetCo, a service-disabled, veteran owned company that specializes in the construction of VA medical centers, commercial buildings, and renovations. |
| San Francisco 49ers | George Kittle, Tight EndGeorge Kittle’s connection is personal, rooted in family with his Uncle Pat and Grandfather Carl among loved ones who’ve served. Kittle hosts military and frontline heroes at every game, donating over 400 tickets in six years. Founding Hidden Pearls Podcast (HPP) in 2020, Kittle and his family amplify community stories, including those of nearly 60 veterans. Inspired by these stories, he and his family created an app offering free mental health resources to veterans, including the meditative practices he uses while playing. Kittle has donated over $250,000 to military nonprofits and further highlighted military organizations through My Cause My Cleats. Kittle’s connection with service members goes beyond their introduction. After gifting the family of fallen Army soldier SGT Martin LaMar Super Bowl tickets, Kittle continues to host them at training camp and keeps SGT LaMar’s purple heart in his locker. Army veteran Chris Kleinsorge handed a uniform he wore in Afghanistan to Kittle’s wife, Claire, during an away game on behalf of all military veterans. Understanding the uniform’s importance, Kittle flew Kleinsorge and his wife to a 49ers home game. These are just two of countless stories that exemplify Kittle’s dedication to the military community. Kittle is an active participant in the team’s Salute to Service programming and goes the extra mile to create opportunities to uplift the military community. |
| Seattle Seahawks | Mike Macdonald, Head Coach Mike Macdonald, head coach of the Seattle Seahawks, embodies each tenant of the NFL’s Salute to Service initiative to honor, empower and connect with service members, veterans and their families. Coach Macdonald honors the military community through a number of engagements. During training camp, he took the entire team and football operations staff on a surprise trip to Joint Base Lewis-McChord to engage with active-duty service members and their families. As coach surprised the team by canceling practice for the offsite visit, he said: “We’re trying to beat everybody right, we are trying to be the best in the world. These guys right here, they’re the best in the world, and we get to learn from these guys.” Coach Macdonald connects the military community to inspire the team and show respect to those who protect our freedom. This season, he invited the U.S. Navy’s flight demonstration squadron, the Blue Angels, to practice and to speak to the team. Coach met with the Blue Angels pilots, whose mission it is to showcase the importance of skill and teamwork, to discuss their rigorous training and discipline regimen, and how that relates to success on the football field. Coach Macdonald empowers service members and their families by constantly engaging with them authentically. Whether it’s visiting a base with the entire team or meeting with Army Rangers after practice to learn how they operate and apply it to a championship-caliber culture, all while showing them the ultimate respect and support for their sacrifice and service. Coach Macdonald is inspired to respect and honor our service members, veterans, and their families thanks to growing up in a military family himself. His father served in the U.S. Army and graduated from the United States Military Academy at West Point. |
| Tampa Bay Buccaneers | Brian Ford, Team StaffIn his 18th season with the Buccaneers, Chief Operating Officer Brian Ford has been steadfast in his commitment to honoring our service members. Throughout his tenure, Ford has been instrumental in facilitating the team’s Salute to Service efforts. At each home game, the team provides an exclusive experience for military members and their families. Many of those invited come from interactions Brian has throughout the community, having personally invited numerous service members over the years. In addition, Brian and the Buccaneers orchestrate annual visits to MacDill Air Force Base while also awarding the General H Norman Schwarzkopf Military Family of the Year Award annually to celebrate military families who exemplify service before self. On his personal time, Brian continues his efforts in supporting our troops, having graduated from the 927th Air Refueling Wing Honorary Commander Program, which allows civilians an opportunity to experience the overall mission capability of the United States Air Force. In 2018, Brian was appointed an Air Force Reserve Command Civic Leader under Lt. Gen. John P. Healy and in 2023 was awarded the Air Force Public Affairs Association President’s Award for phenomenal community support of military, veterans, and their families. For his commitment to the military community, he has been awarded the CENTCOM “Iron Mike” award from U.S. Army Gen. Michael “Erik” Kurilla and has participated in panels during Special Operation Forces Week, led by U.S. Army Gen. Bryan P. Fenton. Brian received honors for his unwavering support of the military community, one of few civic leaders to receive such praise. He is actively involved with Tampa’s Special Operations Forces Transition Assistance Resource (STAR), meeting monthly with Special Operators to develop a plan for their career after the service. |
| Tennessee Titans | Alyssa Gallegos, Team Staff and U.S. Air Force SSgtAlyssa Gallegos is currently the Titans’ Campaign Planning Coordinator and a Staff Sergeant in the US Air Force Reserve. SSgt Gallegos is assigned to the 710th Security Forces Squadron on Buckley Space Force Base in Aurora, Colorado. She provides critical security for U.S. Space Command and Air Force ground segment assets worldwide, maintaining readiness to deploy at a moment’s notice. SSgt Gallegos enlisted in 2019 and deployed to southeast Asia, shortly after basic military training. Gallegos began her double career joining the Titans’ while still deployed. She has been with the team since 2022, implementing an organization-wide campaign strategy. In her role as a non-commissioned officer, Gallegos earned many honors including a Meritorious Unit Ribbon and two Air and Space Achievement Medals for stateside and overseas operations. She has merged her civilian involvement with her dedication to service through outreach with the Tennessee National Guard and Air Guard and is dedicated to assisting in creating an environment that is military friendly. SSgt Gallegos hopes to serve as a reminder to all that with the right support from authentic military friendly organizations, it’s possible to serve in the military and simultaneously grow a civilian career. |
| Washington Commanders | Jeremy Reaves, Safety Jeremy Reaves is a Washington Commanders safety. Over the last six seasons, the 2022 Pro Bowler has embodied the tenants of the NFL Salute to Service initiative. He honors his parents’ legacy of service by consistently going above and beyond for those who currently serve. Through countless base visits in the DC, Maryland, and Virginia region, he regularly connects our armed forces and their families with the greater Commander family. Jeremy’s tenacity and relentlessness on-field is no doubt a byproduct of his upbringing in a military household. At training camp, Jeremy can regularly be found on the fence line after practice with men and women in uniform. He is routinely one of the last off the field, insisting on spending time empowering soldiers, Marines, airmen, and sailors. The Commanders traditionally visit Joint Base Andrews at the end of training camp, conducting a brief walkthrough practice followed by time on field with hundreds of airmen and sailors. This has been one of Jeremy’s favorite moments each season, where he gives back to the military community that gave so much to him growing up. He has made multiple visits to the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethesda, Maryland. During these visits, Jeremy could be found knee to knee with our wounded, ill, and injured, offering heartfelt gratitude for their service and sacrifice. Jeremy’s 2023 season was cut short after a season ending knee injury. His drive and resiliency have led to him coming back stronger than ever for the 2024 season. His mother served in the U.S. Air Force and his father served in the U.S. Army. He continues to lead on the field and off. |
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