The Bears are proud to celebrate Salute to Service throughout November, a time dedicated to honoring the brave men and women who have served or are currently serving our country. This initiative, led by the NFL, focuses on recognizing, empowering, and connecting with service members, veterans, and their families.
In collaboration with USAA, the Official Salute to Service Partner of the Bears, the team has planned a series of community events as part of their annual Salute to Service initiative leading up to the Nov. 10 Salute to Service game against the New England Patriots, which coincides with the 249th birthday of the United States Marine Corps.
The Bears have nominated running back Travis Homer for the 2024 Salute to Service Award, presented by USAA, in honor of his dedication to U.S. service members, veterans, and their families. Travis, who comes from a family with a strong military background, has purchased and donated tickets for each home game to a military family through the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS).
During their trip to the United Kingdom in October, the Bears hosted 100 military personnel from London for USAA’s Salute to Service NFL Boot Camp, led by former cornerback Charles “Peanut” Tillman. The event included football drills and a challenge tournament, providing a unique “NFL Combine experience” for the participants.
Bears offensive linemen Jake Curhan and Bill Murray visited Naval Station Great Lakes (NSGL) in Great Lakes, Ill., where they learned about the daily responsibilities of stationed personnel and observed U.S. Navy Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) and Dive training. They also toured the Virtual Operator Tour (VOT) to gain hands-on experience of life on a naval ship and interacted with sailors on base.
The Bears also hosted over 200 Service members and their families at Halas Hall for a Halloween event, where linebacker Amen Ogbongbemiga and offensive lineman Theo Benedet joined in the festivities, handing out candy and engaging in themed games and activities.
A group of veterans from World War II, the Vietnam War, and the Korean War were invited to Halas Hall to meet the team after practice, providing an opportunity for the veterans to interact with the players.
A private dinner was hosted at Swift and Sons Steakhouse in Chicago to celebrate over 30 female active-duty members from the U.S. Navy and U.S. Marine Corps. Bears players Amen Ogbongbemiga and Patrick Scales participated in a Q&A session on leadership and teamwork with ESPN reporter Courtney Cronin.
The Bears’ official “Salute to Service” game against the New England Patriots on Nov. 10 will feature various tributes and activities, including performances by military bands, appearances by military mascots, and a special ceremony honoring fallen heroes and military personnel. The game will also include a flyover, the presentation of the official USAA Challenge Coin, and an oath of enlistment ceremony for future soldiers.
Overall, the Bears’ month-long celebration of Salute to Service highlights their commitment to honoring and supporting the military community, both locally and globally. Through a series of events and initiatives, the team continues to show gratitude and appreciation for the sacrifices made by service members and their families.
