NFL player scores big points at Incirlik

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Elaine Aviles
  • 39th Air Base Wing Public Affairs
INCIRLIK AIR BASE, Turkey (AFPN) --  As a Pittsburgh Steeler wide receiver, Hines Ward is accustomed to whipping past the opposition and scoring touchdowns on the football field. But during a visit here June 17, Mr. Ward scored big points -- not with his team, but with base people.

Fans turned out in droves to meet Mr. Ward, who spent a day signing photos and visiting base facilities as part of a U.S. Air Forces in Europe tour.

"Every year we try to find celebrities and sports figures to visit USAFE bases as a morale booster and to encourage support of the ‘Extreme Summer’ program," said Mandy Smith-Nethercott, USAFE services marketing and entertainment chief.

Fans of all ages, including die-hard Steelers fans, showed up for Mr. Ward's appearances.

"I live about an hour away from Pittsburgh and love the Steelers," said Susan Perkins, who got an autograph with her 14-month-old daughter, Mattie. Both were in full Steelers regalia. "I've been a fan for years."

Mr. Ward also challenged people to take on the Steelers during a video game football challenge. During the tournament, Mr. Ward experienced something he rarely does on the football field -- a thrashing.

"I beat him 50 to 7, but he took it like a trooper," said Senior Airman Tyrell Schoolfield, a pharmacy services technician with the 39th Medical Squadron.

"Overall, he did really well and almost made it to the finals," said Narissa Atkisson, community center program specialist. "He had a blast. Even when he lost, he took it gracefully and said he wanted his competitor to 'get the bragging rights.'"

Whether a fan or not, people here said they appreciated the visit.

"I'm a Packers fan, but I wanted to meet Hines Ward anyway," said Senior Airman Brandon Layman, a pass and registration office clerk with the 39th Security Forces Squadron. "I think it's great that he traveled here to show support for the troops."

Mr. Ward said he was eager for the opportunity.

"When I was asked to participate, I didn't hesitate to say ‘yes,’" he said. "I saw it as an opportunity to show the troops how appreciative everyone back home is for their service. I figured what better way to do that then to meet them up close and personal."

Mr. Ward said he hoped his visit helped boost morale and "uplift everyone.”

"I wanted to encourage the kids here who might get down and wonder if they can pursue their athletic dreams from overseas," he said. "I wasn't in the military, but I was raised in a single-parent home, and we struggled. I overcame adversities to achieve my dreams, and kids here can do the same. Positive things happen to positive people."

Mr. Ward said he is walking away from the experience with a deeper appreciation for the military.

"I hope my visit here showed military people and the families that support them how thankful Americans are for what they do," he said. "You provide us freedom. Coming here is the least I can do." (Courtesy of USAFE News Service)