Who We Are
Army-Navy
Though we root for opposing sides, there is no disagreement on the historic significance of the annual Army-Navy football game. Since the first game in
1890, these brothers–in-arms have played each other over 100 times. That the game is important to each institution is seen in the fact that typically the entire Corps of Cadets from West Point and the entire Brigade of Midshipmen are both in attendance at each game. Alumni from across the globe share this day with a national television audience eager to watch America’s future military leaders at play.
This is more than just a college football game. This is an event, watched by a nation, which recognizes and celebrates all who serve our country. It makes each of us take a moment to consider not only the sacrifices of the many before us, but most regrettably, the sacrifices of those on the gridiron today who will soon be on the battlefields of tomorrow.
Only once has the Army-Navy Game been played at a site west of the
Mississippi River and that was the 1983 contest which was played in the Rose Bowl in Pasadena. For a moment, let’s go back to 1983…
Rick Welch – “As a former Navy football player, this would be the first game that I would attend as an alum. At the time, I was a Marine First Lieutenant stationed at nearby Camp Pendleton. It was a beautiful and sunny day for the game. The opening kickoff by Army was returned for a touchdown by Navy. After two more quick scores Navy held a lead of 21-0. While standing and cheering loudly upon the third score, I turned around (too late) and realized that I was sitting in a field of gray. My seat was in a row with Bob, an Army plebe, and our parents and was located in the middle of the Army Corps of Cadets. Out of respect, I did my best to monitor my behavior during the remainder of the game which ended in a 42-13 Navy victory.”
Bob Welch – “So sorry, but, I do not recall that game.”
