LANDOVER, Maryland –
The Washington Redskins honored the Air Force and other military members with a Salute to Service Game at FedEx Field on the 74th anniversary of the Pearl Harbor attacks Dec. 7, 2015.
"We are extremely grateful for the men and women of our armed forces for their service to our country," Washington Redskins President Bruce Allen said. "It is a privilege to honor this country's real heroes on Monday night."
AFDW Commander Maj. Gen. Darryl Burke joined his counterparts from Joint Force Headquarters-National Capital Region during pre-game activities including observing the coin toss on the field. During halftime, Burke honored Tech. Sgt. Christopher Ferrell from the 11th Civil Engineer Squadron's Explosive Ordnance Disposal flight for his Purple Heart Medal.
"I think about the meaning behind this medal and the sacrifices given by all of those who have received it, it is a bit overwhelming," said Ferrell, who was wounded while disarming a road-side bomb in Afghanistan in 2009. "I am blessed to still be here on this Earth with my family, while others have paid the ultimate sacrifice in defense of our great Nation. So I guess the feelings I have...are humbled and grateful."
Separately, Airmen from the 11th Civil Engineer Squadron conducted a demonstration of explosive ordnance disposal capabilities outside the stadium for incoming fans before the game began which was a highlight for fans.
"Playing and interacting with the robot was fantastic," said Wes Hummer, a Redskins fan who attended the game. "I want to thank them for their service."
The Washington Redskins' annual Salute to Service game is designed to recognize and honor veterans and current members of America's Armed Forces.
"We are grateful for the support that programs such as Redskins Salute give to our military," said AFDW Commander Maj. Gen. Darryl Burke. "It's not just those you saw in uniform at tonight's game - there are thousands of veterans who were in attendance tonight who have proudly served our country, and millions of military family members either in attendance or who watched tonight's game who sacrifice so much to our nation. The support we witnessed tonight was truly moving."
To read more about Technical Sgt. Christopher Ferrell's story, visit
http://www.andrews.af.mil/news/story.asp?id=123430377