NASHVILLE, TN

Freedom and Football

As Americans, we enjoy a countless number of freedoms, every single one of which the Marine Corps is sworn to protect and defend. Among the less serious, but by no means trivial, is the freedom to kick back, relax and enjoy a great game of football.

So on this cloudless Sunday afternoon, Titans fans gathered at LP Field had one thought: “Hammer the Colts!” Even so, thoughts of the men and women who serve our country were never far away.

Pre kick-off, the Titans paid homage to the 14,000 Tennesseans currently serving in the military. Members of the National Guard took the field for the National Anthem, unfurling an American Flag across 60 yards of the field.

After two quarters of football, the Marine Corps Silent Drill Platoon was introduced to the crowd. It didn’t matter that the Marines entered through the visitors tunnel, they were given a huge and warm reception. The crowd rose to its feet and didn’t sit down.

As the Marines shifted into their performance every pause was filled with cheers and applause only to be outdone by roars of the very appreciative crowd. Some in the crowd even hushed others to be quiet and watch. Even the Titans paused to watch when they came back onto the field.

As the Platoon marched off the football field, fans yelled down from the crowd “Thank you.” The Marines also heard people screaming, “You’re my hero.” America loves the Marine Corps and in Nashville on this sunny Sunday afternoon, you could feel it in the air.

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