Today, we celebrate Veteran’s Day. This is a day to remember all of our country’s soldiers for all they have done in keeping our freedom alive. Over the past several days I was watching television looking at the commercials or events that will be occurring for Veteran’s Day. On ESPN, certain shows will be shown on military bases throughout the country. ESPN, also, had commercials with star athletes thanking every troop, current or veteran, for helping keep freedom in America. In Chicago, the Blackhawks will be wearing camouflage jerseys in warm ups. Much more will be going on today throughout the sports world to honor our soldiers.
However, the question I have is do people think there is too much public relations going into these Veteran’s Day events? In other words, are these events specially designed for the good image of the organization or do these organizations really appreciate the American soldiers? In ESPN’s case, the commercials have some of America’s top athletes. I wonder how much each athlete was paid for the commercial. Why wouldn’t ESPN make a tribute to all the soldiers with top athletes wishing them thanks for all they do? This network is one of the most popular on television. The tribute is a great public relations move on their part.
In my opinion, what happened to the small, feel good stories the media shared. I feel like those stories represent what Veteran’s Day is about. Pat Tillman remains and always will remain a feel good story about how sometimes there are things more important in the world than sports. Even though Tillman’s death is a very tragic loss, people need to remember him for the good he did for our country. If ESPN wants to thank all of the soldiers, bring out a feel good story that is from the heart. Especially, tell stories of athletes who have had family members in the military. I know my grandpa and uncle, who have given military service, always get a chuckle out of the commercials on Veteran’s Day from athletes. My grandpa wonders how much each athlete gets paid to thank the soldiers.
Now here is my thanks for to all the soldiers…
To all soldiers, current or veteran, thank for all you do to keep our country safe. There is no bigger fan than the American people. You are truly all heroes. Please stay safe and come home soon.
This is great Nick. I think that a tribute is definitely necessary for our troops. I am also a huge Pat Tillman fan as I am for anyone who fights for our country. I believe it should be mandatory for athletes to do something for our soldiers because they are the reason sports are still being played.
ReplyDeleteInterestingly, we will be talking about Pat Tillman in one of the next few classes.
ReplyDeleteI agree Nick that Veterans Day is very important and our troops deserve recognition for keeping everyone in our country safe. Pat Tillman was more than an athlete and solider, he was a hero. I agree that ESPN should talk about athletes who have family members in the military instead of watching paid athletes talk about the military.
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