FOXBOROUGH, Mass. - The New England Patriots have planned a number of activities at Sunday's game against the New York Jets to recognize and honor veterans of the United States Military in observance of Veteran's Day. The day's events will be highlighted by "Vets with Vets", a program where eight prominent Patriots Alumni will host a military veteran for the day. Additionally, the pregame presentation will feature four honor guards comprised of veterans from each branch of the military, a performance by the United States Air Force Band of Liberty, a giant flag (weather permitting) presented by a group of Marines who recently returned from Iraq and a flyover by A-10 Thunderbolt II aircraft (weather permitting). During the game, local members of the military currently serving overseas will deliver video messages on the in-stadium ProVision screens. Details of each of the activities are listed below.
Vets with Vets
Eight Patriots Alumni will each host a military veteran at Sunday's game. Former Patriots Peter Brock, Gino Cappelletti, Tony Collins, Russ Francis, John Hannah, John Smith, Andre Tippett and Tom Yewcic will escort veterans from a local VFW or American Legion on the field before the game. Cappelletti and Yewcic are both military veterans, with Cappelletti serving in the Army from 1957-58 and Yewcic serving in the Army from 1955-57. In addition, 26 former Patriots will be on hand to greet the veterans in the Red Level Suite area during the game.
Video Messages
Throughout the game, local soldiers currently serving overseas will deliver videotaped messages expressing their enthusiasm for the Patriots.
National Anthem
The Star Spangled Banner will be performed by the United States Air Force Band of Liberty from Hanscom Air Force Base in Bedford, Mass. The band will also perform God Bless America.
Honor Guard
Four honor guards comprised of veterans from each branch of the military will present the colors on the field prior to the game.
Flag Presentation - Weather Permitting
During the national anthem, 50 Marines from the 1st Battalion 25th Marines will present a giant American Flag on the field. All 50 Marines recently returned from seven months of service in Fallujah, Iraq. The unit has members from throughout New England and is headquartered in Ayer, Mass.
Flyover - Weather Permitting
A group of A-10 Thunderbolt II aircraft from the 104th Fighter Wing from Barnes Air National Guard Base in Westfield, Mass. will fly over the stadium following the national anthem.
