(Cleveland, OH) - In regard to paying respect to first responders and members of the military commemorating the 20th anniversary of 9/11 this weekend, many high school football teams will wear camouflaged jerseys.
“We are honored to help communities pay tribute to the first responders and military members who have served or continue to serve since the attacks on 9/11,” said Maj. Matt France, commander of the Ohio Army National Guard (OHARNG) Recruiting and Retention Battalion.
With 20 sets of jerseys that are rotated among requesting schools across the state, currently 17 teams are scheduled to wear them for this high-demand weekend. Since 2011, the OHARNG has supported schools hosting military appreciation games through a program called Operation Buckeye Guard, which was initiated through a partnership with the Ohio High School Football Coaches Association (OHSFCA).
Through the program, schools can request American flag helmet decals, school-branded patriotic banners, inflatable tunnels with smoke machines for pregame player introductions, and other engagement by local Citizen-Soldiers.
The Ohio Army National Guard comprises more than 11,000 Citizen-Soldiers, serving in about 100 units across the state.
Benefits include 100% college tuition, paid job training, and affordable health care for part-time service.
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