UPDATE: The Army-Navy Game held in Baltimore, MD today has brought together over 5,000 fans not just for football, but to pay tribute to veterans and celebrate their heroism. As the game unfolds, the atmosphere is charged with stories of sacrifice, community, and the enduring spirit of service.
Fans from both sides united at the annual tailgate hosted by the Travis Manion Foundation (TMF), a key player in honoring our military heroes. Joshua Jabin, TMF’s Chief Operating Officer, emphasized the mission of the foundation: “We throw the biggest party around the Army-Navy game. Today, we’re all going to come together and support our veterans and our families.”
This year’s festivities paid homage to the late Brendan Looney, a Navy SEAL and close friend of fallen hero Travis Manion, who was awarded the Silver Star and Bronze Star with Valor for his bravery. Looney’s widow shared the profound impact of the event, stating, “For me, this is more than just about work…I get to keep Brendan’s memory alive.”
Attendees expressed deep personal connections to the game and the foundation’s mission. One fan, Paige Bondar, proudly shared, “I’ve been a supporter of TMF for years, and we’re here at the game because our daughter is a West Point cadet…Go Army, beat Navy!” Another, Danny Aston, highlighted the unity felt at the event, saying, “What I look forward to most is the end of the game when everybody comes together to sing the alma mater.”
As the fierce rivalry played out on the field, the overarching message resonated off it: service and community connection. The TMF’s work aims to reshape perceptions of veterans, showcasing them as vital civic assets. Jabin articulated, “Our job at TMF is to invest in veterans and give them opportunities to serve. We believe veterans have a lot more to offer and a lot more to do for the community.”
This year’s Army-Navy Game serves as a powerful reminder that honoring those who serve extends beyond one day. As Jabin noted, the event fosters a sense of community and support: “Its about connecting everybody, to bring them together, to unite.”
With both teams competing fiercely, the event is not just about the game; it’s a celebration of resilience, heroism, and the commitment to serve. As the clock ticks down, fans continue to rally around a shared mission: supporting and empowering veterans while cheering for their teams.
Stay tuned for further updates as the game progresses and the community continues to show their solidarity.
