Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst –
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell recognized servicemembers on stage during the 2010 NFL Draft April 22 through 24 at New York City's Radio City Music Hall.
More than 25 Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst Airmen were selected to attend the event as honored guests who were acknowledged for their dedication and sacrifice in service to their country.
The long-standing tradition of the draft showcases the future talent of the NFL as franchise leaders choose former collegiate football superstars to compliment their current teams. This event, for some die-hard fans, is like a drink of water in a parched land as enthusiasts bear through the seven-month offseason.
Upturned faces in the crowded room watched the count-down clock as it approaches zero. A momentary silence falls in anticipation of each upcoming pick.
"With the twenty-fifth pick of the first round, the Denver Broncos select Tim Tebow, quarterback from the University of Florida," said Goodell.
The music hall erupted with roars of boos and gasps of shock. It seemed few thought Tebow would be picked this early in the draft since higher-rated quarterbacks Colt McCoy and Jimmy Clausen were still available.
JB MDL Airmen and other services members were invited to not only witness the festivities, but take part in them as well.
"It's great for servicemembers to be able to go out and do something like this," said Staff Sgt. Jason Lownes, 621st Contingency Response Wing, air transportation. "Lots of people in the world dream of this and we got a chance to be a part of it."
The servicemembers were invited to the stage where the bright lights glinted off the medals and decorations displayed on their chests. The television cameras documented the standing ovation for the group, many who recently returned from deployment.
Another element to the draft is celebrities and NFL stars who typically frequent the three-day event where football dominates each conversation.
Former "World News Tonight" anchor, Bob Woodruff, invited a handful of Airmen to stand behind him as he announced the Detroit Lions fourth-round draft pick on the third day.
NY Jets stars Braylon Edwards and Antonio Cromartie; Hall of Famer Dan Marino; and actor Alyssa Milano were among a few of the celebrities who signed autographs and posed for photos with servicemembers throughout the event.
"Meeting the players was awesome," said Airman 1st Class Mark Babjak, 87th Communications Squadron, airfield systems apprentice. "It was special when Antonio Cromartie wanted to get into our Air Force group picture. It felt like he looks up to us just as much as we look up to NFL stars. It shows how much we mean to our country."
When Airmen weren't mingling with celebrities or listening to draft picks, they explored an array of exhibits, many of which displayed NFL artifacts. Guests also had the opportunity to view NFL memorabilia such as the Lombardi Trophy. The Lombardi is passed to the reigning Superbowl champions each year. It currently belongs to the New Orleans Saints.
Whether the crowd cheered or ridiculed their team's selection on draft day, one thing was consistent - they applauded the servicemembers.