WHEELER ARMY AIRFIELD, Hawaii – Partnered with the NFL, ESPN and USAA, Garrison and the 25th Infantry Division hosted the 2016 Pro Bowl Draft in the 25th Combat Aviation Brigade’s hangers on Wheeler Army Airfield Jan. 27.
The draft party brought Soldiers, Airmen, Sailors, Marines, Coast Guard personnel, family and friends together with the best NFL players to celebrate the draft of this year’s Pro Bowl teams.
“I’m a huge fan of football and I’m originally from San Diego, I grew up a charges fan,” said Spc. Jason Gamache, 25th Infantry Division Soldier of the Quarter, 2-25 Aviation Regiment, “I’m a little disappointed to see them leaving San Diego but it doesn’t make me any less of a fan.”
Across two 2-6th Cavalry hangers, we’re spread multiple interactive events sponsored by USAA. These events allowed Soldiers and guests to interact with NFL players, take selfies and pose with the Pro Bowl trophy.
“I think it’s great for an organization like the NFL and the United States Army, the military as a whole to be able to work together and bring the community together, especially in these times,” said Gamache.
"You wouldn't expect that the military and civilians would coordinate with each other like this to bring the Pro Bowl Draft here and actually setting up ESPN right here in front of us, something I never seen before," said Spc. Quinton Brown, Pro Bowl Support Detail, 2-6 Cavalry Regiment.
“It’s a great opportunity for us especially being in a blessed situation to even be here,” said Branden Albert, offensive tackle, Miami Dolphins. “It’s a blessing to be out here in this weather enjoying time with our fans and the Soldiers.”
Gamache was selected by division leadership to appear live on television during the Pro Bowl Draft. He placed the players’ names on the board as they were selected, along with four other service members, representing all five branches of the military.
“It’s always a great experience, It’s a great opportunity being here, especially in the 25th Infantry Division., I’ve had a lot of very unique opportunities not just what you see on the recruiting commercials but to interact with the community and better the organization as a whole,” said Gamache. “I really appreciate those opportunities and am very proud of the opportunity to give back.”
The Pro Bowl will be held at the Aloha Stadium on Oahu this Sunday, Jan. 31.