Posted on 08/16/2005 5:26:10 PM PDT by SandRat
FORT CARSON, Colo. (Army News Service, Aug. 15, 2005) -- Over the past couple of weeks Soldiers of the 2nd Brigade, 2nd Infantry Division have left Iraq and been welcomed to Fort Carson with open arms. A handful were also welcomed to the Denver Broncos’ training camp.
The Soldiers stood on the sidelines in awe as they watched some of the NFL’s superstars workout during a Monday-morning practice in Englewood where they were hosted by the team’s quarterback, Jake Plummer. The Soldiers were able to enjoy unobstructed views of the practice as they were treated to VIP services.
When the morning’s practice came to a close, Mike Shanahan, the Broncos’ head coach, called for all the players to gather around the Soldiers. Shanahan thanked the Soldiers by saying he appreciated what sacrifices they have made for him, his players and the rest of America.
“If not for the sacrifices of guys like you, we couldn’t live in a great country like this,” said Shanahan.
Then, when Shanahan released the hungry players for lunch, the Soldiers were surrounded by the entire Broncos team whose members were giving their thanks with handshakes of appreciation and photo opportunities.
Despite the break for lunch, the VIP service treatment for the Soldiers didn’t stop. The Soldiers were treated to lunch in the team’s own dinning facility were they sat and ate with Plummer and other Broncos players.
As Soldiers and players ate, they swapped war stories over the dining-room table. Plummer asked about the Soldiers’ experiences in Iraq, while the Soldiers asked Plummer about his experiences as a professional quarterback.
“He’s (Plummer) such a down-to-earth guy,” said Staff Sgt. Charles McMillen, who is a lifelong Broncos fan. “It was cool to be able to get close and be able to talk with him.”
During their conversation over lunch, Plummer said he was the one who felt honored to be at the table.
“It’s amazing what you guys go through. You’re true heroes,” Plummer said.
By the time the Soldiers had finished their lunch and visit with some of the Broncos’ players and staff, they had collected enough signed Broncos memorabilia and memories to last their lifetimes.
About 3,500 Soldiers of the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division, are being stationed at Fort Carson. Just over a year ago, the 2nd BCT left Korea to serve in Iraq.
(Editor’s note: Spc. Clint Stein is a member of the Mountaineer newspaper staff.)
ping
ping
I would have tried to sit with Jerry Rice......
More like the Bronco's Cheerleaders if you'd just got back in country to the Land of the Big PX.
I don't know if the cheerleaders would have been at training camp though.... :)
OH WOW rack Slow White broncos LOL! or Denver Mules
I could talk smack since I am Raider fan
The Broncos organization is first class. I'm proud to be a fan.
Me too they don't build them like that anymore. I think TO could learn a lot from him. I met Jason Cambell a few weeks ago at work. He was very down to earth. I was impressed. Hope he stays that way
Cool story. God bless our troops.
No they don't, that is for sure.
Although I think Teddy Ginn may be the next great one, if he keeps his head on straight.
there is also another good WR down at Georgia Tech that has impressed me a bit....
You love those guys from Ohio LOL I am from NJ we never payed much attention to college.Most likely there really has not been to many good schools there.
LOL
well ya got Rutgers LOL
yeah unfortunately all of the good players in NJ go to Penn State or the ACC.....
yeah....I have been talking with him too...
I can handle it. I would like to at any rate....but I can share too :)
Maybe you and SS can split it AFC/NFC
this ping is going to get huge.
well its up to him...
it isn't as big as my RKBA list yet :)
The true Heroes were standing on the sidelines...Plummer was such a good friend to Pat Tillman. I think this would have been hard for him.....
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