Veterans Served by Wounded Warrior Project Honored by NFL and USAA at 2017 Pro Bowl and Super Bowl LI

HOUSTON, Feb. 8, 2017 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- During the biggest week in football, the NFL and USAA^® teamed up to honor wounded veterans served by Wounded Warrior Project^® (WWP) and celebrate the Pro Bowl and Super Bowl LI.

The NFL hosted the NFL Experience Driven by Genesis – pro football's interactive theme park – where football fans enjoyed interactive games, youth football clinics, and player autograph sessions. Within the NFL Experience, USAA hosted 33 warriors at the USAA Salute to Service Lounge, an exclusive area for current and former military members and their families to enjoy complimentary food, games, and NFL player meet-and-greets.

"These warriors have made tremendous sacrifices in the defense of our nation," said Eric Engquist, USAA assistant vice president for sponsorship and military affinity. "USAA is honored to provide them with these unique opportunities to interact with current and former NFL players and coaches, and thank them for their service." 

Additionally, the NFL donated Pro Bowl tickets to 50 warriors and their families, providing them with an opportunity to connect with other veterans in their area. These bonds create important support systems that help warriors recover from the wounds of war. The NFL also donated two tickets to Super Bowl LI for one lucky warrior and a friend or family member.

"The NFL was excited to host these brave warriors and their families at the Pro Bowl and Super Bowl LI," said Anna Isaacson, NFL senior vice president of social responsibility. "We hope they enjoyed the experience, and we are proud to continue giving back to service members who have sacrificed so much for this country." 

"Wounded Warrior Project is privileged to have the support of both USAA and the NFL," said WWP CEO Lt. Gen. (Ret.) Mike Linnington. "We are extremely grateful for their continued generosity toward wounded veterans. Their financial gifts ensure we can continue to provide mental and physical health services free of charge to warriors and their families. Through donated opportunities like the NFL Experience and tickets to the Super Bowl and Pro Bowl, our warriors, family members, and caregivers have chances to connect and build relationships that significantly assist in recovery."

To learn more about how WWP's programs and services are making an impact on the lives of wounded warriors, visit https://newsroom.woundedwarriorproject.org/. To find photos from this event, click on multimedia, then images.

About Wounded Warrior Project
Wounded Warrior Project^® (WWP) connects, serves, and empowers wounded warriors. 

SOURCE Wounded Warrior Project