HUNTSVILLE, AL — October 2024 — The Lettermen of the USA once again brought the community together in gratitude and celebration during the annual Autographs for Heroes Luncheon, held in Huntsville, Alabama. The heartwarming event honored America’s veterans, presenting them with a one-of-a-kind keepsake — a football signed by the head coach of their favorite team.

 

A Tradition of Gratitude and Brotherhood

Each year, the Autographs for Heroes Luncheon coincides with Heroes Week, an annual celebration hosted by the Semper Fi Task Force of North Alabama to recognize and thank wounded veterans, Gold Star families, and their caregivers.

 

The luncheon, hosted by the good Shepherd Church /Lettermen of the USA, brings together former college athletes, coaches, military supporters, and community leaders in a shared mission: to give back to those who have given so much. Through months of coordination, the organization collects footballs signed by college head coaches across the country. Each football is then personalized for a veteran, matching their favorite team whenever possible.

 

The result is a deeply meaningful moment — a tangible symbol of appreciation that connects the courage of America’s heroes with the spirit of the game they love.

 

2024: A Celebration of Service and Sportsmanship

Last year’s luncheon carried on the beloved tradition with heartfelt presentations, inspiring stories, and plenty of smiles. Veterans from across the Southeast, the United States and its territories gathered for a meal, fellowship, and the chance to receive their personalized signed footballs.

Over the years, the program has delivered hundreds of autographed footballs from head coaches representing powerhouse programs like Alabama, Auburn, Clemson, Georgia, and Oklahoma, among many others. Each gift serves as a small token of a nation’s gratitude — a reminder that their sacrifice and service will never be forgotten.

 

During the luncheon, attendees also heard from speakers representing both the military and athletic communities, highlighting shared values of teamwork, perseverance, and honor. For many veterans, receiving a football signed by a coach they’ve long admired was more than just a gift — it was a connection back to home, to pride, and to purpose.

 

Building Bridges Through Brotherhood

The Lettermen of the USA was founded on the belief that teamwork extends beyond the field — that athletes can unite to serve others long after their playing days are over. Programs like Autographs for Heroes embody that spirit, using the power of sports to lift up those who’ve served.

Lettermen of the USA ’s mission goes beyond this event — throughout the year, the organization supports veterans, wounded veterans, and their families through service projects, community outreach, and acts of kindness.

 

Continuing the Mission

The success of the 2024 Autographs for Heroes Luncheon was made possible by the collective support of volunteers, donors, and community partners. From gathering autographs to organizing the event, every contribution helped honor those who’ve sacrificed so much for the nation.

As the organization looks ahead, the commitment remains strong: to continue honoring veterans, building connections, and spreading hope — one football at a time.