When Army battles Navy this weekend, it will pay tribute not just to today's American heroes, but those of the past.
The Black Knights' uniforms, designed by Nike, honor the World War II paratroopers of the 82nd Airborne Division.
Inspired by World War II 82nd paratroopers, we honor the past by re-telling stories of valor, courage & sacrifice. https://t.co/nxhNsSOUB3 pic.twitter.com/xU1q5vjghO
— ArmyWestPoint Sports (@GoArmyWestPoint) December 5, 2016
AIRBORNE! ALL THE WAY!https://t.co/nxhNsSOUB3 pic.twitter.com/OoMJvd0vib
— ArmyWestPoint Sports (@GoArmyWestPoint) December 5, 2016
As described on Army's website: "Highly trained and highly disciplined, the soldiers of the 82nd Airborne were asked to spearhead the invasions of Italy, Normandy, and Holland. With little to no reinforcements or relief in the most adverse conditions, their physical and mental toughness was pushed to the limits. Their unwavering brotherhood and intense dedication to success, ultimately led to mission accomplishment."
When the Black Knights run out of the tunnel for the 2016 Army-Navy game, from their helmets down to their cleats, these football players will be honoring those who sacrificed for their country more than seven decades ago.
Navy, not to be outdone, has its own fresh "Beat Army" uniforms for Saturday.
Fans, here are #NavyFootball’s @UAFootball designed “Beat Army” uniforms for this year's #ArmyNavy Game! pic.twitter.com/8QpFGWHQ2R
— Navy Athletics (@NavyAthletics) December 6, 2016
Last year against Army, the Midshipmen wore seven different hand-painted helmets, created by Under Armour, with each design featuring a specific ship in the U.S. Naval Fleet:
Navy Football: Handpainted Helmets By Position
Navy Fleet Football Helmets
The U.S. Naval Academy and Under Armour present stunning customized helmet designs for the game Dec. 12 against Army.
Quarterback: Aircraft Carrier
The QB of the Naval Fleet, the aircraft carrier is the ultimate decision maker.
Quarterback: Aircraft Carrier
The "quick strike" weapon of the Naval fleet.
Lineman: Amphibious Assault Ships
Just as a lineman's job is the create a hole for a running back or linebacker, these ships are used to establish ...
Lineman: Amphibious Assault Ships
... the "beach head" that enables the invading force to gain access and ultimately accomplish their objective.
Running Back: Littoral Combat Ship
Like running backs, these fast and nimble ships can navigate through both ...
Running Back: Littoral Combat Ship
... crowded shallow and deep waters.
Kicker/Special Teams: Minesweeper
Much like the specific task of the Navy special teams, this small ship has a unique ...
Kicker/Special Teams: Minesweeper
... mission of identifying and eliminating mines.
Defensive Back: Destroyer
These are known for significant fire power, speed and ...
Defensive Back: Destroyer
... anti-missile defense as are Navy's defensive backs.
Linebacker: Cruiser
Provides anti-air defense and packs the biggest punch of ...
Linebacker: Cruiser
... Naval surface ships representative of the linebackers on the Navy football team.
Wide Receiver: Submarine
Predominantly used as blockers, wide receivers play a key role in driving the Navy rush attack, taking on a stealth-like persona as they blend into ...
Wide Receiver: Submarine
... the rhythm of the offense but bring significant fire power when called upon, just like a Naval submarine
-- Follow Megan O'Brien on Twitter @MeganOBsports.
