On Thursday, the Denver Broncos extended a warm welcome to over 50 military guests and their family members to the team’s Dove Valley headquarters.
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These special guests took in the Broncos’ practice in preparation for Saturday’s game against the Minnesota Vikings. After practice, several Denver players stayed to sign autographs and speak with these brave men and women, including quarterback Russell Wilson, wide receiver Kendall Hinton and offensive tackle Garett Bolles among others.
After practice, USAA and the Broncos partnered to put on its annual Salute to Service boot camp, where these military personnel were greeted by Denver legend Rod Smith and several local and national USAA representatives.
Former Broncos wide receiver Rod Smith speaks to military members and their families
After a rousing introduction, all in attendance participated in drills similar to those run in the NFL combine. Drills included a long throw contest, shuttle, 40 yard dash and long jump.
“It was really good having the opportunity to come here, to practice how the NFL (does),” said Army participant Gideon Adomah. “My best was the 40 yard dash. I ran a 4.80-something. That was kind of slow for me. I was expecting something better, like a 4.1.”
Adomah, originally from Ghana, said that this was his first exposure to the NFL in his life. “It was my first time throwing a football, so I learned something today,” he said.
According to Dave Morrisey, senior relationship advisor to the United States Air Force Academy for USAA, there were personnel from several bases in Colorado, including Fort Carson, Schriever Space Force Base, Francis E. Warren Air Force Base and Peterson Air Force Base.
“(My highlight of the day) was definitely the players appreciating us. It’s great to get support that is unseen sometimes,” said Nick Nelson, staff sergeant in the United States Air Force. “It is support we don’t see often, you know, everyday when we go to work. (For the players), it shows what they’re playing for. They go and put it all on the line, just like we do.”
Broncos legend Rod Smith watches as military members participate in the 40-yard dash.
A military member participates in the long throw contest during USAA’s Salute to Service boot camp