From the Field to the Frontline: Athletes Who Answered their Call to Duty
This Memorial Day, we honor the brave men and women who gave their lives in service to our country. Among these heroes are athletes who excelled in their sports and answered the call to defend our nation, often at the cost of their lives. Their stories of courage and dedication are a powerful reminder of the true meaning of sacrifice.
Olympians Who Served and Fell
The history of Team USA is rich with athletes who balanced their sporting careers with military service. Some served during peacetime, while others fought and fell in the line of duty. 15 U.S. Olympians lost their lives due to war, having earned a combined total of 13 medals— seven golds, five silvers, and one bronze.
Charley Paddock (Getty Images)
Charley Paddock was one such Olympian. A track star who won two gold and two silver medals across three Olympic Games (Antwerp 1920, Paris 1924, Amsterdam 1928), Paddock served in both World Wars. He lost his life in a plane crash during World War II, embodying the spirit of dedication both on the track and in his service.
Bob Carmody (Carmody Family)
Bob Carmody, a bronze medalist in boxing at the Tokyo 1964 Olympics, and Ron Zinn, a track athlete who competed in Rome in 1960 and Tokyo in 1964, both died in action during the Vietnam War. Their commitment to representing their country extended beyond the Olympic arenas.
Billy Fiske (Getty Images)
Another remarkable Olympian was Billy Fiske, a bobsledder who won gold at the St. Moritz 1928 and Lake Placid 1932 Winter Olympics. Fiske was among the first Americans to join the Royal Air Force in World War II. He passed away at 29 during the Battle of Britain, leaving a legacy of bravery on the icy tracks and in the skies.
Cliff Cushman on the left (Getty Images)
Cliff Cushman, a silver medalist in the 400 hurdles at the Rome 1960 Olympics, was another who paid the ultimate price in Vietnam. His athletic ability and leadership qualities translated into his military service as a pilot. In 1966, his aircraft was shot down, and he was declared missing in action, serving as a sobering reminder of the risks faced by those in the military.
Heroes of the NFL
The NFL also has its share of service members who traded their cleats for combat boots. These athletes left behind promising careers to fight for freedom, with many never returning home.
Jack Lummus (New York Giants)
Jack Lummus, a two-way end for the New York Giants, exemplifies this sacrifice. After Pearl Harbor, he joined the Marines and was awarded the Medal of Honor for his heroics on Iwo Jima in 1945. Despite being wounded by grenades, Lummus took out three enemy strongholds but tragically stepped on a landmine, losing his legs. He continued to inspire his fellow soldiers until he was evacuated to a medical station. Some of his last words, "I guess the Giants have lost the services of a damn good end," reflect his unyielding spirit and dedication.
Howard "Smiley" Johnson (Green Bay Packers)
Howard "Smiley" Johnson, a former Green Bay Packers player, demonstrated remarkable bravery in 1944. He was awarded his first Silver Star for exposing himself to intense enemy fire and engaging in close combat with a Japanese unit during a counterattack. He received a second Silver Star for his actions at Iwo Jima. Despite being critically wounded by a Japanese shell, Johnson insisted that medical attention be given to the four enlisted Marines with him before accepting any for himself. This selfless act of leadership underscored his commitment to the welfare of his comrades.
Bob Kalsu (Sports Illustrated)
Bob Kalsu, a standout tackle for the Buffalo Bills, joined the Army to fulfill his ROTC obligation. Despite having the opportunity to avoid Vietnam by joining the reserves, Kalsu chose active duty. Unfortunately, he was killed by mortar fire in July 1970, just a few days before his wife gave birth to their son. His story serves as a reminder of the sacrifices service members and their families make. In 2000, Bob was added to the Bills Wall of Fame.
Pat Tillman (Getty Images)
Pat Tillman, perhaps the most well-known of these heroes, left a promising NFL career with the Arizona Cardinals to enlist in the Army Rangers after 9/11. He served in both Iraq and Afghanistan before tragically losing his life to friendly fire in 2004. Tillman's decision to forgo a football career for military service remains a powerful testament to his character and patriotism. Pat's family and friends created the Pat Tillman Foundation to continue his legacy. The foundation offers educational tools and support to military service members, veterans, and their spouses who reflect his values, empowering them to reach their fullest potential as leaders in any field they pursue.
Al Blozis (New York Giants)
Al Blozis, a star tackle for the New York Giants, gave us his all. After joining the Army, Blozis was killed by machine gun fire while searching for missing members of his platoon in the Vosges Mountains of France. Blozis was one of the top players who served in the military. In the NFL, he earned an All-Star selection in 1942 and an All-Pro selection in 1943. His commitment to his team on the battlefield mirrored his dedication on the football field.
Michael Basca (Getty Images)
After attending Villanova, Michael Basca played as a halfback for the Philadelphia Eagles in 1941. Following the attack on Pearl Harbor, he and his brothers enlisted in the U.S. Army. In 1942, he participated in fundraising games against NFL teams as a member of Robert Neyland's All-Army football team. As a tank commander in the 4th Armored Division, Basca landed on Utah Beach during the Normandy invasion and fought with the Third Army. Tragically, Basca was killed on November 11, 1944, when German forces hit his tank. The Eagles paid tribute to him a year later before a game against the New York Giants.
Legacy of Sacrifice
These athletes' stories are a testament to the sense of duty that led them to serve their country. They remind us that the values of discipline, teamwork, and resilience learned on the field can translate into extraordinary bravery on the battlefield.
Their stories inspire us to appreciate our freedoms and those who have fought to protect them. As we celebrate this holiday, let's take a moment to reflect on their sacrifices and ensure their memories live on in our hearts and minds. By honoring these heroes, we recognize the true cost of freedom and the enduring legacy of those who gave everything for their country.