MacDill Air Force Base, Fla -- MACDILL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. -- The season’s first pads-on day at the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Training Camp was no ordinary day at Raymond James Stadium, Tampa, Florida, July 31.
Airmen from the 927th Air Refueling Wing along with other military members from MacDill showed up in force to cheer on their home team, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, for the Bucs Military Day 2017.
“Military day is special; it’s awesome to have service men and women out here,” said Dirk Koetter, Tampa Bay Buccaneers head coach. “Players love it. It’s an important day, one we look forward to.”
Military Day, which was open to all service members, veterans and their families, an annual event the Buccaneers host to highlight and honor Tampa’s military community. Visitors had the opportunity to watch practice plays, meet players and interact with various exhibits. MacDill is located just 9 miles south of the stadium.
“We appreciate what you do,” Koetter told service members. “Our level of respect for our troops is through the roof.”
Even though Tropical Storm Emily made landfall in the Tampa Bay area just prior to the start of the training camp, it didn’t dampen the spirits of attendees.
First time attendee Airman 1st Class John Quinn, 927th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron crew chief, was impressed with the talent of the Buccaneers and the dedication of the local military fan base.
“This is incredible,” Quinn said. “I see this on TV all the time, I’m a huge Bucs fan and it’s nice to come out here and experience this firsthand.”
“These are professional players giving back to the military, and I appreciate it a lot more than they realize,” he added.
After practice, the players and coaches visited with the military members and their families in the stands, signing autographs and extending their appreciation.
“I have such a deep and rich history in the military through my family, so when I talk to the men and women I understand what they go through, their mind and thought process, and we can just have a down to earth conversation about life.” said Clinton McDonald, Tampa Bay Buccaneers defensive tackle. “It’s great to have the men and women here on our practice fields competing.”