Be the One message among activities associated with events celebrating American Legion’s associate sponsorship of the game.
More than a month leading up to the Army-Navy Game presented by USAA – which this year saw The American Legion in its first year as an associate sponsor – American Legion posts were urged to host watch parties to raise awareness about the sponsorship, as well as about the Legion in general.
Posts across the nation did just that, including spreading the word about The American Legion’s Be the One veteran suicide prevention program.
In North Platte, Neb., P.R. Halligan Post 163 teamed up with Brothers Tavern to host a watch party that also served as a chance for Post 163 to raise awareness about the Legion and its highest priority: reducing veteran suicide. Geoff Florom, Nebraska American Legion District 5’s commander and Sons of The American Legion Squadron 163’s commander, used halftime of the game to share that mission with those in attendance.
“The Army-Navy Game presented an incredible opportunity to share information about The American Legion and specifically the Be the One campaign because of the audience it brings together,” Florom said. “This event is a powerful tradition that unites veterans, active-duty servicemembers and supporters from all branches of service. It’s a time when people reflect on sacrifice, service and the values that bind us as a military community.
“Sharing the mission of Be the One during halftime allowed me to reach individuals who not only care deeply about these issues but are also in a position to make a difference.”
Be the One is a program deeply believed in by Florom, who served in the Army National Guard from 2007 to 2013, including more than a year in Afghanistan.
“What makes Be the One so significant is its simplicity and its urgency,” he said. “It empowers everyone — veterans, families and supporters — to take action against veteran suicide by doing just one thing: being there, listening, starting a conversation and connecting someone to resources. This campaign resonates because it breaks down barriers around mental health conversations and encourages individuals to look out for one another.
“For me, raising awareness about Be the One means spreading hope, reducing stigma and reminding our veterans that they are never alone. The American Legion’s work through initiatives like Be the One saves lives, and it’s a message that needs to be shared far and wide. I’m grateful for the chance to be a small part of that mission.”
The following are just a few more examples of how American Legion posts opened up their facilities for community watch parties during the Army-Navy Game. Legion Family members who hosted such events are encouraged to share their photos and stories at legiontown.org.
California
· Leading up to its watch party, American Legion Post 267 in La Habra hosted a JROTC flag football tournament that morning. The post then provided lunch for all involved and area veterans before inviting participants to watch the game at the La Habra Performing Arts Center.
· In Los Angeles, Hollywood Post 43 hosted a viewing party that also served as an opportunity to donate to Toys for Tots. The post set up bins to donate the toys: one for Army, one for Navy.
Connecticut
In Bristol, Post 2’s American Legion Family held its first Army-Navy Game party at the post. A large projecting screen was set up in the hall along with food and drink. The game was also shown on multiple TVs throughout the rest of the building. The day also included fundraiser events, with proceeds going to Post 2 veteran activities.
Florida
In Coral Gables, American Legion Post 98 had veterans from every branch of the military attend its watch party, as well as active-duty military and members of the reserves, and other veteran service organizations. The event also raised more than $1,000 for the nonprofit Shake a Leg, which utilizes the marine environment to improve the health, education and independence of children and adults with physical, developmental and economic challenges through sailing and watersports.
Iowa
In Ames, American Legion Post 37 hosted a watch party that also included a competition in which participants prepared pork loin via their favorite method. The proceeds of the competition went to Wreaths Across America.
Maine
In Gray, American Legion Post 86 asked attendees to bring a dish to share during the game. The event also included door prizes.
Massachusetts
In Swansea, American Legion Post 303 featured traditional tailgate foods and urged attendees to wear their team’s clothing.
New York
· In Spencerport, Ferris Post 330’s watch party included competitions between military branches, raffles and 50-50 drawings. The day raised money for the Blue Star Mothers ROC Chapter 8. “We want to say Thank You to everyone who attended the Army Navy Fundraiser yesterday! We could not do this without your support! Great Game, Great People, Great Fun!!!” Chapter 8 wrote on Facebook.
· In Central Square, Fuller-Taylor Post 915 hosted a chili cookoff in tandem with an Army-Navy watch party.
South Dakota
In Chester, American Legion Post 136 and American Legion Post 25 (Madison) teamed with The Shipwreck Bar and Grill to host a watch party.
- Be the One