THE Pentagon will not allow military personnel to participate in NFL Salute to Service activities.
The War Department issued guidelines prohibiting active duty troops and department personnel from participating in NFL outreach services.
According to the Washington Post, the War Department cited lack of funding due to the government shutdown as the reason for barring military personnel from participating in NFL honors festivities.
The directive ends all military appearances, including flyovers, military bands, color guards and ceremonial units.
A War Department spokesperson confirmed that troops are still allowed to attend events personally and can wear uniforms, but they are not allowed to represent the Pentagon in an official capacity.
“Military personnel are permitted to wear military uniforms to Veterans Day events in their personal capacity, provided that it meets their service-specific guidelines,” the release said.
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The War Department’s directive means Veterans Day weekend games will look very different for fans compared to previous seasons.
Last year, 12 NFL games had official Department of War participation.
This participation included helicopter flyovers and on-the-ground ceremonies.
Without the War Department’s involvement, private groups stepped in to fill the void.
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The Cincinnati Bengals will present a flyover of a B-25 Mitchell bomber from the Tri-State Warbird Museum.
The NFL released a statement downplaying the federal shutdown, saying Salute to Service takes place year-round, not just around Veterans Day.
“Our long-standing efforts to support the military community continue throughout the year,” said Anna Isaacson, the league’s senior vice president of social responsibility.
Salute to Service was launched by the NFL in 2011.
The campaign has raised more than $75 million for military charities since its launch.
This year’s Salute to Service campaign marks the 250th anniversary of the Army, Navy and Marine Corps.
