Soldiers from Fort Hood’s Better Opportunities for Single Soldiers program participated in the USAA Salute to Service NFL Boot Camp at AT&T Stadium on Aug. 19. The event offered the soldiers a chance to experience drills commonly used by National Football League coaches to evaluate talent, including the 40-yard dash, broad jump, three-cone shuttle, receiving gauntlet, and quarterback arm challenge.
A digital leaderboard tracked scores in real time during the competition. The team with the highest score received tickets to attend the Dallas Cowboys’ annual Salute to Service game.
“Being a Dallas Cowboys fan myself, it was really fun going from the nosebleeds to right on the field where they play,” said Sgt. Amber Solis, vice president of Fort Hood BOSS.
Spc. Kristopher Landry from 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, won multiple athletic events including the 40-yard dash, three-cone drill and long jump. “It feels good (to win),” Landry said. “I’m not where I need to be, but it’s still good to feel like I can keep up or be better than them.”
After completing the drills, participants toured the National Medal of Honor Museum. “Seeing the heroes who served before me and wore the same uniform before I did, it was truly amazing to see,” said Spc. Robert Winston of 115th Brigade Support Battalion.
The day concluded with a VIP viewing of Cowboys’ practice at The Star facility in Frisco and included an opportunity for soldiers to meet Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones and interact with players as they entered the field.
“I’ve never been a part of BOSS event, so it’s my first time (…)” said Sgt. Sadie Clark. “I’m excited to get back to work and tell everybody about my amazing experience.”
