As Americans prepare to celebrate Independence Day and America’s 250th birthday, several Atlanta Falcons players recently spent time honoring those serving overseas.
Safety Jessie Bates III, defensive lineman Zach Harrison, rookie edge rusher Jalon Walker, and former Falcons great John Abraham took part in the NFL’s annual USO tour, traveling throughout Japan to visit U.S. military personnel and their families. The weeklong trip included stops at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, U.S. Fleet Activities
Sasebo, and Camp Zama, where the group met with service members, toured facilities, and participated in a variety of activities designed to connect the NFL with military communities stationed abroad.
Among the events were youth football clinics, skills competitions, and special gatherings for military families. Players also had the opportunity to spend time with service members in their day-to-day work environments, offering a firsthand look at life while serving overseas.
“I had a blast on the USO tour in Japan. The best part was meeting the service members,” Harrison said. “Getting to hang out with them and seeing what they do, it honestly felt like we were just chopping it up and catching up like old friends, especially when you realize most of them are around the same age. I have the utmost respect for them.”
The trip was part of the NFL’s ongoing Salute to Service initiative, which partners with the USO to recognize military members stationed around the world. This year also marks six decades of collaboration between the NFL and the USO, a partnership that dates back to 1966 when the league first sent players overseas to meet with troops serving in Vietnam.
The Falcons have been active participants in those efforts over the years. Since 2016, Atlanta has taken part in four USO tours, visiting military installations across the globe, including stops in Bulgaria, Romania, Germany, Iraq, Kuwait, Guam, Hawaii, and now Japan.
With the Fourth of July holiday approaching, the visit served as a meaningful way for Falcons players to show their appreciation for the men and women serving overseas. For those stationed thousands of miles from home, spending time with current and former NFL players provided a welcome reminder that their sacrifices are recognized and valued back home.
