La. Soldiers receive surprise black and gold visit

Photo By Sgt. Beyonka Joseph | Soldiers of the Louisiana Army National Guard's 2225th Multi-Role Bridge Company, 205th Engineer Battalion, headquartered in Marrero, La., receive autographs from New Orleans Saints running back Reggie Bush after a football practice session at the Saints' training facility in Metairie, La., Aug 6. The Soldiers visited with the team as part of a reward for their outstanding performance during their two-week annual training.  

METAIRIE, UNITED STATES

08.06.2009

Story by Sgt. Beyonka Joseph 

Louisiana National Guard

METAIRIE, La. —The Louisiana Army National Guard's 2225th Multi-Role Bridge Company, 205th Engineer Battalion, sported huge smiles as they received one of the biggest surprises of the year, a chance to meet New Orleans' own Saints NFL football team during a practice session at their training facility in Metairie, La., Aug 6.

"This is a big thing for our unit and it is really nice to have the support of the Saints," said 1st Sgt. Kevin M. Giroir, the 2225th's top non-commissioned officer. "When you have outstanding Soldiers who are dedicated and are able to effectively accomplish missions, they deserve to be rewarded. Many of them can't stop smiling so this was definitely the perfect surprise for them."

Tom Benson, who is the owner of the team, showed his support before the start of practice. "It is an honor to have you all come out today, "he expressed. "I love the military and appreciate all of your sacrifices."

Once the practice ended, the Soldiers were greeted by the team's leader, quarterback Drew Brees, and the rest of the players of the black and gold team.

"I was very excited to be given a chance to meet the team," said Spc. John C. Figaro of Marrero, La., whose favorite players are Reggie Bush and linebacker Johnathan Vilma. "This shows how much our leadership cares and appreciates our hard work."

• Date Taken: 08.06.2009
• Date Posted: 08.14.2009 12:17
• Story ID: 37498
• Location: METAIRIE, US