Even though the New England Patriots and Philadelphia Eagles are opponents for the big game in Minneapolis on Sunday, Feb. 4, both teams have displayed appreciation for HFOT’s severely injured Veterans.
In the fall of 2016, several New England Patriots players helped out at SGT Christopher Gomes’ specially adapted custom HFOT home in Freetown, Mass. Corner-back Malcolm Butler; linebackers Barkevious Mingo, Shea McClellin, Elandon Roberts; center Dave Andrews; long snapper Joe Cardona; running back D.J. Foster; and defense lineman Geneo Grissom spent a day preparing the home and yard for HFOT’s Volunteer Day later that week by cleaning the interior of the home and spreading loam. This past spring, Stairs 4 R Troops held its fundraiser event at Gillette Stadium, with help from Patriots Owner Bob Kraft and his family.
HFOT Veteran Cpl Carlos Garcia was devastated when he lost autographs he had received on his prosthetic from the Philadelphia Eagles. While trying to preserve the signatures, he inadvertently wiped them clean. The team helped his wife Jacki surprise him by signing new signatures on his prosthetic leg. Learn more about the heartwarming story here.
No matter what the outcome of next Sunday’s game, both teams can walk off the field knowing they have made a difference in the lives of injured Veterans.