Jacksonville Jaguars Host Salute the Troops Night

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class (SW) Jacob Sippel, Navy Public Affairs Support Element East Det. Southeast

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (NNS) -- Hundreds of retired and active duty service members, along with friends and family, attended the Jacksonville Jaguars "Salute the Troops Night" at the Florida Blue Health and Wellness Practice Fields in Jacksonville, Fla., Aug. 5.

The practice event was the last public training camp practice for the Jaguars before the start of their season Sept. 12.

"I know they are doing this because they appreciate the things we do for them, and we are showing the Jaguars today that we'll support them this season," said Patrol Squadron (VP) 62 Command Master Chief (SW) Phil Rogers. "The support the Jaguars have shown us really means a lot and it is exciting to be here."

During the festivities, the crowd was treated to a live performance by the Albany, Georgia, Marine Corps Band and many of the local Sailors of the Year were recognized for their dedication to the United States. Shortly after the performance of the band and tribute to the service members, Jaguars tight end Mercedes Lewis spoke to the crowd.

"On behalf of the Jacksonville Jaguars organization, we want to give you a special thanks and really want to say that we appreciate everyone coming out here today," said Lewis. "We work hard, but you guys work even harder. We honestly can't thank you enough."

After the heart-felt speech, Jaguars General Manager Gene Smith also had a message to service members in attendance.

"Today is a special day and a day that I am proud to be a Jaguar," stated Smith. "For me, living in a military city and raising my family here, I have great respect for what the military does for us on a daily basis."

The ceremonies concluded with a flyover by a SH-60B helicopter from Naval Station Mayport's Helicopter Antisubmarine Squadron Light 60, just as the Jacksonville Jaguars took the field for practice.