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Eagles, fans show troop-support

  • Published
  • By Airman Rebekah Phy
  • McGuire Public Affairs
MCGUIRE AIR FORCE BASE, N.J. --  Servicemembers from McGuire, Fort Dix, Lakehurst, Willow Grove, Pa., and other area installations attended the Philadelphia Eagles' Training Camp at Lehigh University in Bethlehem, Pa., Monday for a military appreciation day. 

The 300 military members started their visit with a continental breakfast and a welcome from Eagles play-by-play commentator, Merrill Reese. "Thank you so much for coming out today, and thank you for everything you all do," Mr. Reese said. He held a question-and-answer session with the troops, then said, "Enjoy your day at the Eagles' Training Camp." 

"The Eagles' organization showed a great deal of class by sponsoring this event to honor the men and women in the Armed Forces," said Tech. Sgt. Christopher Robinson, McGuire NCO Academy academic instructor and training camp attendee. "I especially appreciate their encouragement and their warm hospitality for us while in uniform." 

As grateful and appreciative as the Eagles' military fans were, the players also expressed gratitude for having the chance to meet the troops. 

"People are always asking me, 'How can you go through training camp and two-a-days,' " veteran linebacker, Shawn Barber said. "Look what these people go through -- putting their lives on the line to protect our way of life. Any little thing we can do to thank them, we'll do. 

After watching the Eagles practice, the servicemembers stepped onto the field to meet with the players. As the troops filed onto the field, the crowd and players gave a standing ovation as they whistled and cheered. The troops lined up around the field as the Eagles had their last huddle of the day and were released to sign autographs, take pictures and meet with the servicemembers. 

"Whenever I sign an autograph, the guy I'm signing for usually says thank you. But today, I made sure I said thank you first to everybody I signed for. I just want them to know I appreciate what they're doing," Mr. Barber said. 

"It brings everything home for me and reminds me what's important in life," said Eagles' guard, Shawn Andrews. "I know all about what these guys do, man. My brother, Derrick, was in Iraq in 2003 and is a sergeant first class in the U.S. Army. I have the utmost respect for what they do for us and our country. I'll be forever grateful." 

Defensive end Jevon Kearse agreed, "They're not just fans, they're in the service. They are fighting for us, and we wouldn't be able to come out here and do what we do if it wasn't for them. The least I can do is sign autographs and take pictures with them. They do so much more for all of us." 

"Even if you weren't an Eagles' fan, you couldn't deny the sincerity of the players who took the time to talk with us and sign numerous autographs and pictures. In fact, it just might make you see why the 'City of Brotherly Love' embraces and adores the Eagles so much. They are genuine," Sergeant Robinson said.