UPDATE: The Army-Navy Game on December 13, 2025, in Baltimore, MD, drew a crowd of 5,000 fans who united for more than just football. This annual event serves as a powerful tribute to veterans, showcasing stories of heroism and community support for the military.
The game featured the fierce rivalry between the Army Black Knights and the Navy Midshipmen, but the day’s true essence lay in honoring those who served. Attendees rallied around the Travis Manion Foundation (TMF), which hosted its annual tailgate fundraiser, emphasizing the foundation’s mission to empower veterans and their families.
Joshua Jabin, Chief Operating Officer of TMF, stated, “We throw the biggest party around the Army-Navy game. Today, we’re all going to come together and support our veterans and our families.” The tailgate exemplified unity, with fans from both sides showing their love for the military and the nation.
The emotional connection was palpable, as stories of sacrifice echoed throughout the event. One poignant narrative was that of Travis Manion, a fallen hero who was posthumously awarded the Silver Star and the Bronze Star with Valor for his bravery in Iraq. His legacy inspired the words, “If not me, then who,” a mantra echoed by many at the game.
Attendee Paige Bondar, whose daughter is a West Point cadet, expressed her deep connection to the event, saying, “I’ve been a supporter of the Travis Manion Foundation for years. We’re here at the game because it means so much.” The Army-Navy Game is a reminder that the spirit of service transcends the field, fostering a sense of community that includes veterans and civilians alike.
Veterans shared their personal ties to the event, with Brendan Looney Heffernan, whose late husband was a Navy SEAL and friend of Manion, stating, “For me, this is more than just about work and a job…I get to keep Brendan’s memory alive.”
The atmosphere was electric, as fans cheered not only for their teams but also for the shared mission of honoring those who serve. “It’s about connecting everybody,” Heffernan added, highlighting the importance of unity in celebrating military service.
As the rivalry played out on the field, the message off the field was one of collective strength and support. The Army-Navy Game served as a poignant reminder that honoring veterans extends far beyond the game day, creating lasting bonds within the community.
The event’s significance resonates deeply as the nation continues to recognize the sacrifices made by military personnel. Fans and veterans alike left the game with a renewed sense of purpose, inspired to carry forward the legacy of service and heroism that defines the Army-Navy tradition.
Stay tuned for more developments as the Army-Navy Game continues to highlight the importance of community and support for veterans across the nation.
