The Kansas City Chiefs have nominated franchise legend and ambassador Kendall Gammon for the 2026 NFL Salute to Service Award. The annual award is a collaboration between the NFL and USAA, which recognizes NFL players, coaches, personnel, and alumni who've dedicated time to honoring and supporting the U.S. military.
Here is why the team chose to nominate Gammon for the award this year (via the NFL's Press Release ):
Kansas City Chiefs Legend Kendall Gammon has dedicated years to supporting service members, veterans, and their families, drawing inspiration from his father, a U.S. Air Force veteran. Following a 15-year NFL career, Gammon has used his experiences with adversity, mental health challenges, and the transition from professional football
to connect with veterans navigating similar challenges after military service. Gammon previously served as chief development officer for War Horses for Veterans, working directly with veterans and first responders through equine-based experiences designed to build confidence, trust, communication, and resilience. Through the organization, he served as a mentor and advocate, helping participants develop skills and connections to support their well-being. His commitment also extends to recognizing veterans through meaningful experiences. During an event hosted by Friends in Service of Heroes, Gammon spoke with veterans and, with support from the Chiefs, surprised attendees with 50 personalized game balls modeled after those awarded to Chiefs players for outstanding performances. Gammon has also visited Whiteman Air Force Base on multiple occasions, spoken at its Chief Master Sergeant Recognition Ceremony, and delivered the keynote address at a University of Kansas ROTC commissioning ceremony. He has additionally supported the National WWI Museum and Memorial, including participating in the ceremonial "First Pass" during a Chiefs Salute to Service game alongside Museum and Memorial President and CEO Dr. Matthew Naylor. Through his mentorship, advocacy, and continued engagement with military organizations, Gammon has demonstrated a commitment to ensuring service members and veterans feel recognized, valued, and supported.
Chiefs Ambassador Kendall Gammon is this year's Salute to Service nominee! 🇺🇸
— Kansas City Chiefs (@Chiefs) November 5, 2026
For years, he's been empowering veterans through mentorship, advocacy, and service.
Vote now: https://t.co/NlJxLf4rcQ pic.twitter.com/mcMOxK63a1
Fan voting will help determine the award's three finalists, who will be announced in January 2027. The award recipient will be recognized at NFL Honors, the league's annual primetime awards special, during the week of Super Bowl LXI in Los Angeles.
To vote for Gammon, Chiefs fans can visit NFL.com/SaluteFanVote from now until November 30. One vote per day, per fan is permitted.
This article originally appeared on Chiefs Wire: Chiefs nominate Kendall Gammon for 2026 NFL Salute to Service Award
