Falcons Owner Outrages-a Teachable Moment
Falcons First Game As a kid of eleven, in 1966 I attended the very first Atlanta Falcons game, a loss to the Rams 19-14. That was during a time when any number of war veterans were playing in the league. Researching the subject, I learned some interesting facts. For example, well over 1,000 NFL players have served in the Armed Forces. During World War II, 995 NFL players quit football to serve their country. 23 died. Over 200 NFL players fought in Korea. 28 NFL players fought in Vietnam. Several have fought in the Middle East, three of them, so far, giving the ultimate sacrifice. Among them was former All-Pro Pat Tillman, who after 9/11 left the NFL in his prime to fight in Afghanistan, and who was unfortunately killed by friendly fire. Tom Landry B-17 Pilot The late NFL Hall of Fame Coach Tom Landry was a B-17 pilot. He flew 30 missions over Europe during WWII. Landry’s first Dallas ...