The Ravens will turn back the clock and go all out in their Salute to Service during Sunday’s game against the Jacksonville Jaguars.
Here’s a list of everything the Ravens will be doing to honor the military:
- Three military vehicles will be on display on Ravens Walk. Two anti-tank cannons from the Presidential Salute Battery will be on display outside Gate A. The 3rd U.S. Infantry Guns Platoon honors foreign dignitaries and heads of state to the White House and fires the final salutes during many funerals at Arlington National Cemetery.
- Baltimore native Sgt. Joey Odoms, a member of the Maryland Army National Guard, will sing the national anthem. During the anthem, a field-sized American flag will be held by representatives of the United States Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard and Maryland Army National Guard.
- A flyover with WWII-era planes (one TBM Avenger and three T-6 Texans) from the Commemorative Air Force Capital Wing, will happen at the end of the anthem. Fans are encouraged to get to their seats early.
- Prior to kickoff, Ravens players will be introduced onto the field and led by five service members, one representing each branch of the military. Additionally, the Hometown Hero, presented by Dietz and Watson, will honor Vernon E. Kirk Jr., a veteran who served in the 8th Air Force, 68th Squadron during WWII. Kirk received a Purple Heart due to injuries he suffered in Germany in 1944.
- Players and coaches will wear camouflaged gear on the field and sideline, including hats, gloves and towels. All player helmets will feature a decal that represents a branch of the military. Ravens cheerleaders will sport red, white and blue uniforms.
- Game-worn camouflaged merchandise, along with special game balls and coins, will be auctioned off at www.nflauction.nfl.com, with proceeds benefiting the Pat Tillman Foundation, USO and Wounded Warrior Project.
- A special halftime performance will feature the United States Air Force Honor Guard Drill Team. Baltimore’s Marching Ravens will perform patriotic-themed songs.
- Guests of the Seats for Service program, presented by Northrop Grumman, will include WWII honorees. William Doherty of the United States Navy Pacific Theater gave up a full scholarship to Yale to enlist in the Navy at the age of 18 and serve from 1944-46. In addition, Anthony Stabile of the United States Marine Corps will be recognized for his 26 years of service, including combat in World War II, the Korean War and Vietnam War.
The Ravens have long saluted members of the armed forces through several initiatives, including hosting military members at training camp and practices, visiting veteran hospitals, hosting workouts for wounded warriors, welcoming home soldiers and showing support through care packages, letters and daily communication.
“It’s important to us to honor the military and, any way we can, say thank you for what they’ve done in service to our country,” said Vice President of Marketing Brad Downs.
Regarding prior accusations of NFL teams taking money for on-field tributes, the Ravens were not involved. We formerly had an advertising agreement with the Maryland National Guard. The Ravens have never been paid for any tribute to the military.
