This Saturday, as the Nebraska Huskers face off against Maryland, Memorial Stadium will not only be a stage for football but also a platform to honor our nation’s heroes. In observance of Veterans Day, Nebraska Athletics is set to pay tribute to all Veterans and active-duty military members in attendance with a series of special events and activities.
Key Features of the Veterans/Military Appreciation Day:
- Tactical Vehicle Displays: Fans can expect to see military tactical vehicles showcased outside Memorial Stadium on Stadium Drive and at East Stadium gate 20.
- Herbie Husker’s Special Arrival: In a unique tribute, Herbie Husker will make his entrance in a classic 1952 M38 “Willy’s” Jeep, leading the team buses for the unity walk at 8:45 a.m.
- Toys for Tots Collection: The U.S. Marine Corps Reserve’s Toys for Tots will be collecting new, unopened toys and donations at Memorial Stadium’s entrances, aiming to spread Christmas cheer and hope to underprivileged children.
- Veterans’ Tribute Visit: Fans are encouraged to visit the Veterans’ Tribute near the Pershing Military and Naval Science building at the corner of 14th and Vine Street.
- Flyover Spectacle: The conclusion of the national anthem will be marked by a thrilling flyover featuring three Army Guard CH-47 Chinook helicopters from Grand Island.
- Patriotic Field Display: A massive 100-yard American flag will be unfurled on the field during the National Anthem.
- HuskerVision Tribute: Names of Nebraskans who have fallen in military action since 2003 will be displayed on the HuskerVision screens during the National Anthem.
- Anthem Performance: The National Anthem will be performed by an ensemble of military musicians including Master Sgt. Samantha Renner, Capt. Megan McKenna, Chief Warrant Officer 2 Paul Kenney, and Spc. Matthew Brandenburg.
- Honorary Captain: Brig. Gen. Craig Strong, Nebraska’s Adjutant General, will have the honor of participating in the coin toss as an Honorary Captain for the Huskers.
- Recognition of U.S. Strategic Command: The University of Nebraska will highlight its partnership with U.S. Strategic Command and the vital role of its 150,000 members in national security.
- Field Greetings: Nebraska veterans and active-duty military members will greet the Huskers on the field.
- Former Husker’s Patriotic Lead: Ex-Husker offensive lineman and current Nebraska Army National Guard flight paramedic Staff Sergeant Chris Long will carry the American Flag as he leads the team from the locker room.
- Halftime Band Performance: The Nebraska National Guard’s 43rd Army Band will join forces with the Cornhusker Marching Band for an unforgettable halftime show.
- Oath of Enlistment Ceremony: Governor Jim Pillen will administer the oath of enlistment to 30 of Nebraska’s newest military service members during halftime.
- Recognition of Servicemembers: A special moment will be dedicated to asking fans who are serving or have served in the military to stand and be recognized.
- Shoutout Videos: Throughout the game, fans will see shoutout videos from military servicemembers with Nebraska ties from across the globe.
- POW-MIA Chair Sentinel: Saturday’s game will feature Lieutenant Colonel Mary Louise Cermak Resch of Bruno, Neb., as the POW-MIA Chair Sentinel.
Additionally, Nebraska Athletics is organizing a special event for a group of veterans on Thursday, which includes a visit to Nebraska’s football practice followed by a lunch with athletic staff members.
Fans are encouraged to support our veterans by purchasing Operation Hat Trick merchandise. Proceeds from these sales will go to organizations aiding wounded service members and veterans. OHT gear is available at the east plaza near gate 20, the Adidas container store on Stadium Drive, the Nebraska team store, shop.huskers.com, and other local retailers.
Join us in showing our gratitude and support for our veterans and military members at this Saturday’s game, where the spirit of Husker football meets the honor and courage of those who serve our country.
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