The exact number of NFL players who served in Vietnam is difficult to determine as there isn’t a comprehensive record of their military service. However, it is estimated that around 200 NFL players served in the Vietnam War.
During the Vietnam War, many NFL players felt a strong sense of duty and patriotism, leading them to serve in the military. While there isn’t a comprehensive record of their military service, it is estimated that around 200 NFL players put on the uniform and served in Vietnam. This number may vary as different sources provide different estimates.
The decision of these NFL players to serve in Vietnam speaks to their selflessness and commitment to their country. As Vince Lombardi, the legendary NFL coach, once said, “They were men of conviction. They knew the political problems involved, and yet they played anyway because they were real patriots.” It is clear that these players, despite their athletic prowess and fame, were willing to sacrifice for a cause they believed in.
Here are some interesting facts about NFL players serving in Vietnam:
- Pat Tillman, who played for the Arizona Cardinals, left his successful NFL career to enlist in the Army after the September 11 attacks. Tragically, he was killed by friendly fire in Afghanistan, but his selflessness and sacrifice serve as an inspiration.
- Roger Staubach, a Hall of Fame quarterback for the Dallas Cowboys, served in the Navy during the Vietnam War. He even spent a year in Vietnam as a supply officer.
- Not all NFL players who served in Vietnam returned unscathed. Rocky Bleier, a running back for the Pittsburgh Steelers, was wounded during combat and received a Purple Heart for his bravery.
- The exact number of NFL players who served in Vietnam is difficult to determine due to the lack of comprehensive records. However, several sources estimate that around 200 players served, while others suggest a slightly higher number.
- Many NFL players made the difficult decision to postpone their football careers and instead serve their country in Vietnam. Their commitment to duty showcased their character and dedication beyond the football field.
While the NFL has become synonymous with entertainment and athleticism, it is important to recognize the sacrifices made by the players who served in Vietnam. Their willingness to put their football careers on hold and fight for their country is a testament to their courage and patriotism. As we remember the Vietnam War and its impact, let us also remember the NFL players who answered the call to serve.
Below is a table that provides a glimpse into a few notable NFL players who served in Vietnam:
| Player | NFL Team |
|---|---|
| Roger Staubach | Dallas Cowboys |
| Rocky Bleier | Pittsburgh Steelers |
| Fred Dryer | New York Giants |
| Donny Anderson | Green Bay Packers |
| Greg Barton | San Francisco 49ers |
| Jon Arnett | Los Angeles Rams |
| Joe Bellino | Boston Patriots |
| Eddie LeBaron | Dallas Cowboys |
| Tom Banks | St. Louis Cardinals |
| Pat Toomay | Oakland Raiders |
It is important to remember and honor these individuals for their service to their country and their contributions to both the NFL and the Vietnam War.
You might discover the answer to “How many NFL players served in Vietnam?” in this video
In the video “From Vietnam Vet to NFL Player,” Dr. Lem Burnham discusses the differences between his experiences in the military and his career in the NFL. He reflects on how the challenges he faced in the Marine Corps were far more difficult than those he encountered in football, stating that the NFL was a “piece of cake” in comparison. Dr. Burnham credits the Marine Corps for providing him with the discipline and foundation that allowed him to successfully transition to civilian life. He also emphasizes the importance of supporting and assisting fellow veterans, expressing his gratitude for their sacrifices.
I discovered more answers on the internet
Thirty-two NFL players, coaches and managers served during the Vietnam War era, according to Army G-4. Three of them went on to be inducted into the Hall of Fame: Staubach, Charlie Joiner, and Ray Nitschke.
28 NFL personnel
List of the 28 NFL personnel who served in the military during the Vietnam War>>>
Also, people ask
In this way, What NFL player served in Vietnam? As a response to this: Robert Patrick "Rocky" Bleier (/ˈblaɪər/ BLY-ər, born March 5, 1946) is an American former professional football player and a veteran of the United States Army. He played as a running back in the National Football League (NFL) for the Pittsburgh Steelers in 1968 and from 1970 to 1980.
How many NFL players were drafted during the Vietnam war?
Response: But only two of the 960 NFL players were drafted that year. The magazine revealed that NFL teams—“having invested hefty bonuses to sign these fast-depreciating talents”—were intervening directly so players could avoid facing calls from their local draft boards and possible lengthy commitments to the armed forces.
How many Vietnamese NFL players are there? Moreover, only one player of Vietnamese descent has ever been signed by an NFL team. In 1999, Dat Tan Nguyen was drafted to the Dallas Cowboys after being picked in the third round (85th overall).
Did NFL players go to Vietnam? In reply to that: Campbell was one of only a handful of NFL players who, at the time, served in the military. Woody Campbell is shown in his Army military police uniform, most likely in 1969. In 1969, Campbell deployed to South Vietnam and was a military policeman with the 1st Infantry Division.
Similarly, Who was the only pro football player to die in Vietnam? The plaque recognized Kalsu, who entered the Army as a second lieutenant following his promising rookie season, as the only pro football player to lose his life in Vietnam, as a member of the United States military.
Also asked, Are Iraq and Afghanistan veterans in the NFL Hall of Fame? Throughout the history of the National Football League, there have been athletes who both play football and served their country. In fact, some of these World War II and Vietnam veterans were even named to the Pro Football Hall of Fame. The current generation of Iraq and Afghanistan service member-athletes are no exception.
Subsequently, Did NFL players and coaches serve in the military? Take a moment to remember and learn about the NFL players and coaches who have served in the military. Chicago Bears quarterback Sid Luckman was one of 19 men (out of 28) from his team’s 1943 championship squad to leave for the war the following year.
Beside above, How did the NFL help players dodge the draft during the Vietnam War? Answer will be: How the NFL helped players dodge the draft during the Vietnam War. In the 1960s, the leaguewaved the flag while helping players dodge the draft. Pink sings the national anthem prior to Super Bowl LII between the New England Patriots and the Philadelphia Eagles at U.S. Bank Stadium on Feb. 4 in Minneapolis. Rob Carr/Getty Images
Who was the only pro football player to die in Vietnam? The response is: The plaque recognized Kalsu, who entered the Army as a second lieutenant following his promising rookie season, as the only pro football player to lose his life in Vietnam, as a member of the United States military.
Also Know, Are Iraq and Afghanistan veterans in the NFL Hall of Fame? Throughout the history of the National Football League, there have been athletes who both play football and served their country. In fact, some of these World War II and Vietnam veterans were even named to the Pro Football Hall of Fame. The current generation of Iraq and Afghanistan service member-athletes are no exception.
Also question is, Did NFL players and coaches serve in the military?
Take a moment to remember and learn about the NFL players and coaches who have served in the military. Chicago Bears quarterback Sid Luckman was one of 19 men (out of 28) from his team’s 1943 championship squad to leave for the war the following year.
How did the NFL help players dodge the draft during the Vietnam War? How the NFL helped players dodge the draft during the Vietnam War. In the 1960s, the leaguewaved the flag while helping players dodge the draft. Pink sings the national anthem prior to Super Bowl LII between the New England Patriots and the Philadelphia Eagles at U.S. Bank Stadium on Feb. 4 in Minneapolis. Rob Carr/Getty Images