The annual Army-Navy game, which took place on December 9, 2023, brought together a diverse crowd of fans in a celebration that extended beyond football. This historic rivalry between the Army Black Knights and the Navy Midshipmen served as a platform to honor veterans while fostering a sense of community and support for military families.
The event featured poignant tributes to fallen heroes, including stories of bravery such as that of Travis Manion, who posthumously received the Silver Star and the Bronze Star with Valor for his actions during an ambush in Fallujah. At the game, attendees shared his legacy, emphasizing the foundation’s guiding principle, “If Not Me, Then Who,” as a call to service and character.
The Travis Manion Foundation (TMF), dedicated to empowering veterans, hosted its annual tailgate fundraiser, attracting around 5,000 attendees. Joshua Jabin, Chief Operating Officer of TMF, highlighted the event as the biggest celebration surrounding the Army-Navy game, stating, “We’re all going to come together and support our veterans and our families.”
Jabin elaborated on the foundation’s mission, which seeks to redefine the perception of veterans in their communities. “We think that veterans are civic assets,” he noted. “Our job is to invest in those veterans and families of the fallen and give them opportunities to serve.” Through mentorship programs, TMF aims to harness the potential of veterans as leaders and community contributors.
Attendees expressed deep personal connections to the game and the mission of TMF. Looney Heffernan, who lost her husband, a Navy SEAL, reflected on the significance of the event, stating, “For me, this is more than just about work and a job…I get to keep Brendan’s memory alive.”
The shared sentiments echoed throughout the stadium. Paige Bondar, a supporter of the foundation and parent of a West Point cadet, remarked, “I’ve been a supporter of the Travis Manion Foundation for years… Go Army, beat Navy!”
Others echoed similar feelings of unity and respect. Danny Aston, a veteran who has been attending the Army-Navy game since 1981, emphasized the importance of camaraderie, saying, “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.”
While the competition on the field was fierce, the atmosphere off the field resonated with messages of unity and service. Supporters and veterans alike recognized that the values represented in the Army-Navy game extend far beyond the scoreboard. “It’s about connecting everybody, to bring them together, to unite,” Heffernan stated.
The Army-Navy game serves as a vital reminder of the sacrifices made by those in uniform and the importance of community support. Fans and veterans alike left the event inspired, reinforcing the belief that honoring those who served is a collective responsibility that transcends the game itself.
