Donald Trump's Department of War bans troops and flyovers from NFL Veterans Day
THE Pentagon will not allow military members to participate the NFL’s Salute to Service activities.
The Department of War issued guidance banning active-duty troops and department personnel from taking part in the NFL‘s outreach services.
Sign up for the Sport newsletter
Thank you!
According to The Washington Post, the Department of War cited a lack of funding due to the government shutdown as the reason to ban military members from the NFL’s honorary festivities.
The directive halts all military appearances including flyovers, military bands, color guards, and ceremonial units.
A War Department spokesperson did confirm that troops are still allowed to attend events in a personal manner and can be in uniform, but they are not allowed to represent the Pentagon in an official manner.
“Service members are permitted to wear military uniforms at Veterans Day events, in a personal capacity, as long as it follows their service-specific guidelines,” the statement said.
Read more on the NFL
The directive from the War Department means Veterans Day weekend games will look much different for fans compared to previous seasons.
Last year, 12 NFL games had official participation from the War Department.
That involvement included helicopter flyovers and on-field ceremonies.
Without the War Department’s participation, private groups are stepping up to fill the gap.
Most read in American Football
The Cincinnati Bengals will feature a flyover from a B-25 Mitchell bomber from the Tri-State Warbird Museum.
The NFL released a statement downplaying the federal shutdown, saying that Salute to Service runs year round, not just near Veterans Day.
Biggest BUSTS and regrets for 2025 NFL season at halfway point
PREDICTION PLAYBACK
Video Player is loading.
Current Time 0:00
Duration 15:19
Loaded: 0.21%
Remaining Time 15:19
Up Next
-
American airline abruptly confirms immediate total shutdown and cancels flights after 66 years of service
“Our long-standing efforts to support the military community continue throughout the year,” Anna Isaacson, the league’s senior vice president of social responsibility, said.
Salute to Service was launched by the NFL in 2011.
The campaign has raised over $75 million for military charities since its inception.
This year’s Salute to Service campaign marks the 250th anniversaries of the Army, Navy, and Marine Corps.