Former NFL defensive lineman Vince Wilfork and current Minnesota Vikings running back Aaron Jones have been designated as USO Global Ambassadors, a role that sees them engaging with military service members globally. Their involvement underscores the USO's 85th anniversary and its ongoing mission to support armed forces personnel. Through their visits, both athletes have gained a deeper appreciation for the profound sacrifices made by those serving in the military, often far from home. They leverage their public profiles to connect with troops, fostering conversations that extend beyond football and touch upon the realities of military life, personal dedication, and the importance of national service.
NFL Icons Embrace New Role as USO Global Ambassadors, Bridging Sports and Service
In a significant announcement coinciding with the USO's 85th year of dedicated service, former New England Patriots defensive stalwart Vince Wilfork and dynamic Minnesota Vikings running back Aaron Jones have been named USO Global Ambassadors. These esteemed athletes are utilizing their platform to engage with military personnel stationed across the globe, bringing a sense of home and appreciation to those who serve.
Vince Wilfork, at 43 years old, recounts his impactful encounters with service members, often sharing his Super Bowl rings not as a display of personal achievement, but as a tangible link to home and a conversation starter. He emphasizes that witnessing the troops' dedication firsthand, in distant lands, truly reveals them as the "true patriots." One particularly memorable occasion involved a Seattle Seahawks-supporting lieutenant presenting him with a "12th Man" flag, a memento now cherished by Wilfork's son. These interactions, he explains, deeply resonate, highlighting the immense sacrifices made for national freedom.
For 31-year-old Aaron Jones, the connection to military life is deeply personal, rooted in his upbringing. Both his parents honorably served as Army sergeants for a combined 56 years, instilling in him a profound understanding of military families' challenges, including sudden deployments. Jones describes these moments as stark reminders of the selfless commitment required. In 2025, during a USO tour, Jones experienced a poignant "full circle moment" when he visited Camp Arifjan in Kuwait, the very base where his mother had once been stationed, connecting with her via FaceTime from that significant location.
Michael Linnington, President and CEO of the USO, highlights the critical role these visits play in boosting troop morale. He notes that service members eagerly anticipate these interactions, finding them a welcome respite from challenging environments. Both Wilfork and Jones recognize that their celebrity status offers them a unique opportunity to give back and honor those who embody patriotism, choosing to support those who often go unrecognized.
The stories shared by Vince Wilfork and Aaron Jones offer a powerful testament to the unwavering commitment of military service members and their families. Their roles as USO Global Ambassadors transcend mere celebrity endorsement; they represent a genuine effort to connect, honor, and support the brave individuals who dedicate their lives to protecting national interests. It is a poignant reminder that while athletes perform on grand stages, there are heroes in uniform making silent, profound sacrifices daily. Their initiative encourages us all to reflect on the meaning of service and to find ways to appreciate and uplift those who contribute so much to our collective safety and freedom.