Member-only story

Soldier Athletes Good Sports: A Gridiron Legacy of Courage, Resilience, and Patriotism

Evan Simmons

·11.1k Followers· Follow

Published in Soldier Athletes (Good Sports) Glenn Stout

4 min read · 1 week before

413 View Claps

88 Respond

Save

Listen

In the annals of American football, countless athletes have left an indelible mark on the game. But beyond the gridiron, some of the sport's most iconic figures have also served their country with unwavering dedication. In his captivating book, "Soldier Athletes Good Sports," author Glenn Stout unveils the extraordinary lives and legacies of these legendary players who seamlessly transitioned from the football field to the battlefield.

The Intertwined Paths of Sports and Service

The intersection of sports and military service is a long and storied tradition. From the days of ancient Greece, athletes have been revered for their physical prowess and discipline, qualities that are highly valued in the armed forces. In the United States, the connection between these two realms became particularly pronounced during World War II, when countless young men left their athletic pursuits to fight for their country.

Soldier Athletes (Good Sports)

by Glenn Stout

4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	9106 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	144 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

Profiles of Gridiron Heroes

"Soldier Athletes Good Sports" introduces readers to a diverse cast of football players who answered the call to duty. Among them are:

* Red Grange, the legendary running back known as the "Galloping Ghost," who enlisted in the Navy during World War II. * Bronko Nagurski, the bruising fullback who became one of the most decorated football players of all time and later served in the Army Air Corps during World War II. * Woody Hayes, the fiery head coach of The Ohio State University, who volunteered for active duty in the Navy during World War II. * Pete Dawkins, the Heisman Trophy winner from Army, who served in the Vietnam War and later became the first African American to lead a military academy. * Cullen Bryant, the former Dallas Cowboys player who went on to serve in the Army National Guard and became a highly decorated combat veteran in Iraq.

Courage, Resilience, and Patriotism

Throughout the book, Stout paints vivid portraits of these soldier-athletes, highlighting their courage, resilience, and unwavering patriotism. He describes their experiences on the battlefield, where they faced unimaginable challenges and risked their lives for their country. Yet, even in the darkest of times, their determination and love of country never wavered.

Beyond the Football Field

While the book primarily focuses on the military service of these players, Stout also explores their impact on society beyond the battlefield. Many of these men used their fame and influence to promote social justice and equality. They became role models for generations of young people, demonstrating that it is possible to be both a great athlete and a patriotic American.

Enduring Legacy

The legacy of the soldier athletes profiled in "Soldier Athletes Good Sports" continues to resonate today. Their stories serve as a reminder of the sacrifices made by countless men and women who have served their country. They embody the ideals of courage, resilience, and patriotism, values that are as relevant today as they were during the tumultuous years of World War II.

"Soldier Athletes Good Sports" is a must-read for anyone interested in the intersection of sports and military history. Through captivating narratives and meticulously researched accounts, Glenn Stout brings to life the extraordinary stories of these gridiron heroes who answered the call to duty. Their experiences on the battlefield and their enduring impact on society serve as a powerful testament to the unbreakable spirit of the American athlete.

Soldier Athletes (Good Sports)

by Glenn Stout

4 out of 5