Melanie Fonder Kaye, deputy assistant to the secretary of defense for strategic engagement of U.S. Department of Defense, said the NFL's Salute to Service is "a profound commitment."
"Commissioner Roger Goodell extends a heartfelt thank you to the brave service members and veterans who protect our freedoms. The NFL's Salute to Service is more than a campaign; it's a profound commitment to honor, empower and connect with those who sacrifice for our nation," said Melanie Fonder Kaye.
According to a press release, the NFL and USAA, an official NFL Salute to Service partner, named the 2023 nominees for the annual Salute to Service Award. The award recognizes NFL players, coaches, staff and alumni who have shown their commitment to supporting the U.S. military, veterans, and their families. Finalists will be announced in January, with the winner recognized at the NFL Honors ceremony held in February, during Superbowl week.
"Military servicemembers, veterans and their families are unique, and so are the ways in which the nominees for this season's Salute to Service Award presented by USAA show appreciation for the military community," said Major General (Ret.) Bob Whittle, USAA senior vice president and chief of staff said in statement. "As NFL fans cast their votes, we hope the examples set by each nominee will lead to increased action by fans to honor, support and connect with all those who serve."
Washington Commanders Head Coach Ron Rivera was the winner last year. He will help serve on the panel this year, selecting the final winner after the three top candidates are chosen by the fan vote, according to a media release.
Apart from recognition, there is also a financial contribution tied to this award. USAA contributes $25,000 to official aid organizations representing all U.S. military branches. These donations are made in the name of the winner, according to a news release. The NFL matches this donation with their own contribution of an additional $25,000 to the awardee's military or veteran charity of choice.
