Well... being married to an '88 USMA grad hasn't been easy the first week of the past 15 Decembers. But it finally happened today, no 4th quarter meltdown this time around. Their losing streak, going all the way back to 2001, has finally come to an end.
Something else came to an end today too, as Verne Lundquist announced that after 17 years of calling college football games - it was time to call it a career. Not sure how much longer he plans on sticking around for college hoops, or how many more years he will assume his traditional post in the tower behind the 16th green at the Masters, but one thing is certain - he picked a memorable game to go out on this afternoon.
Navy was battered and bruised coming into the game today, relying on a 4th-string QB and missing a lot of their best players due to various injuries. They still put up a helluva fight, as they always do. Much respect to them.
I've been to several Army vs Navy football games in recent years, and each and every time I've come away from the experience, despite my team losing (Army), feeling so encouraged and uplifted because of the enormous competitive spirit and goodwill that exists within this rivalry. These young men will soon graduate from their respective academies and begin honoring their military commitments, some of whom will undoubtedly be deployed and put in harm's way. That is the road they picked, the life they chose, and they accept all of the good and potentially bad that come with it. They do it not for themselves, but out of a true spirit of love for their country and her citizens.
In this day and age especially, it is encouraging to know that there are people willing to give of themselves for the betterment of others.
In turn, hopefully many of us can take at least a small moment every now and then to acknowledge their service and be thankful for their selflessness. There is no greater heart than that of a volunteer.
Well done, Army!