The annual Army-Navy football game, held on December 9, 2023, brought together fans not just for a rivalry, but to honor the sacrifices of veterans. The matchup between the Army Black Knights and the Navy Midshipmen drew a significant crowd, showcasing stories of heroism and the importance of community support for military personnel.
Among the highlights of the event was the recognition of Travis Manion, a fallen hero who was posthumously awarded the Silver Star and the Bronze Star with Valor for his courageous actions during an ambush in Fallujah. His legacy continues to inspire many, as reflected in the words of Joshua Jabin, Chief Operating Officer of the Travis Manion Foundation (TMF). Jabin shared, “Before he went back for his second, what would be his final, deployment, he was asked why he had to go back to Iraq, and Travis’s answer was, ‘if not me, then who.’”
The TMF hosted its annual tailgate fundraiser, attracting approximately 5,000 fans, equally divided between Army and Navy supporters. The event emphasized a shared mission: empowering and supporting veterans and their families. Jabin emphasized the foundation’s approach, stating, “Our job at the Travis Manion Foundation is to invest in those veterans and families of fallen and then give them opportunities to go out and serve.”
Looney Heffernan, a TMF representative and widow of Navy SEAL Brendan Looney, expressed the personal significance of the game. She noted, “For me, this is more than just about work and a job…I get to keep Brendan’s memory alive.” Many veterans and fans echoed similar sentiments, illustrating the deep connection between the game and personal histories.
The Army-Navy game serves as more than an athletic competition; it fosters unity among attendees. Paige Bondar, a supporter of TMF, reflected on the personal impact of the event, sharing her pride in her daughter, a West Point cadet. “We’re here at the game because our daughter is a West Point cadet…Go Army, beat Navy!” she exclaimed.
Danny Aston, a long-time attendee, expressed the joy of witnessing the camaraderie that transcends rivalry. “What I look forward to most about every Army-Navy game is the end of the game when everybody comes together and sings the alma mater. That shows you the greatness and the unity in America…Go Navy!” he shared.
As the competition unfolded on the field, the true spirit of the Army-Navy game shone off the field. Supporters of TMF highlighted the event as a reminder of the need to honor those who served, emphasizing the importance of community connection. “It’s about connecting everybody, to bring them together, to unite, to bring something together,” Heffernan remarked.
This year’s Army-Navy game not only celebrated athletic prowess but also served as a powerful tribute to the values of service and sacrifice that define the military community. The gathering underscored the belief that veterans are civic assets, capable of contributing positively to society. Jabin concluded, “We think that veterans have a lot more to offer and a lot more to do for the community.”
Thus, the Army-Navy game remains a significant event that honors not just the rivalry, but also the enduring legacy of those who have served, reminding attendees that the spirit of service continues long after the final whistle.
