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Sports make up a large portion of American culture, and football is one that's especially dear to the country. Knowing this, it only makes sense that sports teams would contribute to the honoring of those who have served. Many athletes have shown their support for the troops with personal visits, charitable donations and other forms of appreciation. Recently, one veteran was even awarded with a ticket to the upcoming Super Bowl.

Ticket to Phoenix
Super Bowl XLIX will be held in Phoenix, Arizona, on Sunday, Feb. 1. Dustin Butler, a Marine Corps veteran of Cherokee descent, will be in attendance to see what's sure to be an action-packed game between the Seattle Seahawks and New England Patriots, reported the Muskogee Phoenix. The tickets were donated by Operation Enduring Respect, an organization that gives veterans the opportunity to attend professional sports events during life after service. In addition to the tickets, the group will cover the fees for transportation, food, souvenirs and lodging, and even provide Butler with the chance to attend a private NFL Hall of Fame luncheon with some of the most well-respected NFL legends.

"I've been watching the Super Bowl since I was old enough to remember, and I never expected to ever go in person," Butler told the news source. "Words don't describe how happy I am to be going and experiencing this firsthand."

It's this kind of appreciation that drives Kevin Phelps and Brian McKee, founders of the organization, to continue the good deeds they're doing for those who have served.

NFL and veterans
The NFL shows its support for veterans in its own way. The NFL website noted that its Salute to Service campaign connects football teams with those who have served and strives to give them an experience they'll never forget. Not only that, but all donations made to the campaign go directly to their military sponsors, which include well-known organizations like USO, Wounded Warrior Project and Pat Tillman Foundation.

The website explains that "through its long standing partnerships and support from our 32 teams, the NFL takes pride in supporting military personnel and remains committed to raising awareness for the sacrifices they make on our behalf." The United States Automobile Association is the official military sponsor of the program, and continues to make many valuable contributions to the troops. The company also recently ran a social media campaign that encourages users to post messages of appreciation to those who have served with the hashtag #SaluteToService.