That's right, the Veterans of Foreign Wars and the Army-Navy Football rivalry are both 120 years old this year. Of course, the VFW cares about all veterans regardless of their branch of service or where they served. For all these years, VFW has been working for the rights of service members and veterans....we are even older than the VA!
But enough of the advertising, you wanted to know about the big game. If you don't know already, Go Navy, Beat Army. Quartermaster General Debra and I were invited to share the weekend with the USAA group and they did not let us down. Friday evening we attended the Gala dinner event with over 1,000 people. The room was divided into Army and Navy sides and we sat with USAA on the Army side. Bands played, speeches were made and there was a spirit of competition and respect in the room. I was duly impressed! Outside the event there was a cheerleading competition as well as a battle of the bands. These people take football and the rivalry seriously.
On Game Day, we made it to the field many hours before kick off to enjoy the pageantry of the event. Even the lightly falling rain and blowing winds didn't damper the spirit of the stadium. We were in the USAA suite with other guests from various service organizations as well as military-centric foundations. Networking was rampant and not only did I enjoy the company but I have many great ideas for partnerships down the road. Success!
It was an amazing site to see over 4,000 cadets and midshipmen march onto the field. That's 4,000 EACH! First the Navy marched in, then left and then the Army came in. It was an inspiring sight thinking that on that field are the future leaders of our great military. We were taken down on the field for a short time to take it all in front and center, then returned to the suite to enjoy the companionship and company of USAA and the other guests.
The game was exciting, USAA and their folks were gracious hosts, and I was able to represent the VFW on your behalf. I'll be returning the favor to USAA when I visit their headquarters in San Antonio in January. Here are a few pics for your viewing pleasure. I've written a few words for each.
The USAA 120th Anniversary Commemorative Coin
Quartermaster General Debra with the Commander's Trophy
Army and Navy on the field...quite a sight!
I figured out how to use the selfie button!
Discussing veterans issues with Hall of Fame Quarterback Roger Staubach. He has a Foundation dedicated to veteran employment and he knew exactly what the VFW does. We talked for a long time and he said he was happy that he didn't have to talk football for a change!
