The annual Army-Navy football game, held on December 9, 2023, brought together a vibrant crowd of fans to celebrate not just the fierce rivalry on the field but also the profound honor of military service. The matchup between the Army Black Knights and the Navy Midshipmen is a time-honored tradition that showcases stories of heroism and community support for veterans.
As thousands gathered at the stadium, the event highlighted the mission of the Travis Manion Foundation (TMF), which aims to empower veterans and their families through service and mentorship. The foundation is named after Travis Manion, a Marine who was posthumously awarded the Silver Star and the Bronze Star with Valor for his bravery in Fallujah, where he led a counterattack to protect his wounded teammates.
Stories like Manion’s resonate deeply among attendees. Joshua Jabin, Chief Operating Officer of TMF, emphasized the importance of character and service in honoring veterans. “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,’” Jabin said. He stressed that these words encapsulate a commitment to living a life of character, placing others’ interests ahead of one’s own.
Celebrating Community and Service
The festivities surrounding the game included TMF’s annual tailgate fundraiser, which attracted around 5,000 fans, split evenly between Army and Navy supporters. The atmosphere was charged with camaraderie, as attendees united under a shared mission of supporting veterans. “We throw the biggest party around the Army-Navy game,” Jabin remarked. “Today, we’re all going to come together and support our veterans and their families.”
Veterans and supporters expressed the personal significance of the event. Looney Heffernan, whose late husband served as a Navy SEAL and was a close friend of Manion, shared her perspective. “For me, this is more than just about work and a job…I get to keep Brendan’s memory alive,” she said. The collective spirit of the Army-Navy game fosters connections between military and civilian communities, emphasizing the importance of unity and service.
Fans like Paige Bondar, who has been a longtime supporter of TMF, noted the deep emotional impact of the event. “We’re here at the game because our daughter is a West Point cadet…Go Army, beat Navy!” she exclaimed. Danny Aston, who has attended the game since 1981, reflected on the enduring tradition. “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!”
A Message of Unity Beyond Competition
While the competition on the field is fierce, the overarching message from the Army-Navy game is one of unity and service. Supporters of TMF highlighted the significance of connecting veterans with their communities. “It’s about connecting everybody, to bring them together,” Looney Heffernan said. “Every player that walks onto the field, regardless of whether Army or Navy, is willing to give their life for every single person here. More of our nation needs to see the impact that our military can make in our communities.”
The Army-Navy game serves as a reminder that honoring those who served extends far beyond the excitement of game day. The event not only celebrates a storied rivalry but also reinforces the importance of community, service, and the sacrifices made by veterans. As fans left the stadium, the hope was palpable that the spirit of the game would inspire ongoing support for those who have bravely served their country.
