Game represents respect and unity
Players also cherish life-long friendships
I played in four Army-Navy football games. And lost them all — by a total of six points.
Each was highly competitive, well-coached and played at a fever pitch. The outcomes were uncertain until the final whistle. Despite the losses, the experiences were worth it.
The game has become more meaningful for me over the years. I think the ArmyNavy game also means something to our country. In times of challenge, adversity and discord, Army-Navy remains a shining example of our country’s potential.
Army-Navy means mutual respect. After our final contest in 1995, Army cocaptain Jim Cantelupe left his team’s celebration and asked to meet me in the hallway of a cavernous Veterans Stadium. He expressed his thanks for a game well-played. It was truly one for the ages. Navy was stopped three times inside the 3-yard line, and then a 99-yard drive by Army produced the winning score. The final: 14-13. In the midst of a difficult loss, Jim’s kindness and sportsmanship will remain with me forever. It was an act of class and goodwill.
Army-Navy means unity. Without fail, West Point and Annapolis continue to produce some of the country’s finest young military officers. After their respective playing days are over, Army and Navy football players answer the nation’s clarion call. Far from the spot- lights and pageantry of the game, they serve together in every clime and place. Their sense of duty unifies them in the pursuit of national victory. They support and defend our homeland without complaint, in a spirit of discipline, toughness, intelligence and character.
Army-Navy means unconditional friendship. Players on each team become life-long friends — forged in the service academy experience and unified by the fires of college football. After athletic and military journeys eventually end, the friendships endure — within each team and between each team. I’m certain Army football players would do anything to help a Navy player in need. Army can count on Navy to do the same.
On Dec. 10, the game will be played with a burning passion and competitive spirit. More importantly, millions of viewers will see great examples of our national potential for mutual respect, unity and unconditional friendship.