I have never served in any branch of the United States military and am a staunch supporter of anyone who has or does. Whether its war time or not, whether its in the field or behind a desk, it takes courage and fortitude to enlist in my opinion. In my support, I also greatly respect the parents, spouses, children, relatives and friends who are directly affected by those who serve. Whether or not I agree with the war in Iraq, I believe it is a must to support the troops because they represent our country.
I am also a Detroit Lions, NFL, and general all-around sports fan as is many of Americans as well as military personnel. It is not hard to imagine the relief a sports fan serving over seas gets from the distraction sports can bring them and the sense of normalcy following their teams and players. The 2008 NFL Draft brought about an intriguing debate in its last round; the status of Lion draft pick, safety Caleb Campbell from Army.
At the time of his selection, I really didn't think it was that big of a deal. He is a football player, a player who plays defense which the Lions are in dire need of, and of course, available. Was I touched by his story? Of course. Did I mind the ovation he got at Radio City Music Hall? Not in the least. I will admit, I did not know of the new rule the Army has implemented where it concerns professional sports. After I was informed, I still didn't have any concerns over Campbell's selection.
At first, I wondered if this was a ploy by the team. Matt Millen has been under fire for years here and his popularity isn't about to improve regardless. Head coach Rod Marinelli is a veteran of the Vietnam War and brings a militaristic tone to his team and staff. Was this pick, considered by many as "the feel good story" of the draft, an attempt to play to the football fans of not only the Motor City, but the nation? I would not be surprised, but it was my cynical Lion mind that placed it in my mind.
I thought it a wise pick and it getting the reaction it got was a bonus to me. Frankly, the Lions can use any positive publicity and recognition it can get. After years of continued futility, its about time he had something to smile about if we cannot celebrate division championships, playoff wins of even a Super Bowl appearance let alone a win. I really did not expect the debate to be so strong on the "rule" and the vast array of emotions and opinions the issue has spawned.
Because Campbell was drafted by a professional team, he has the option of not being deployed to Iraq or Afghanistan. He can serve as an Army recruiter and "general ambassador" and with his new-found popularity is considered an asset to draw recruits to West Point. It makes sense that high-profile West Point graduates could be very valuable in this regard. And for an guy who could have remained anonymous his entire life, Campbell's new found fame as an NFL player (providing he makes the team, which I don't see how he gets cut), means even more of the public eye.
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8 months ago
A good balanced perspective. Keep up the good work Mick. You should be paid to write this well.
8 months ago
Thanks Reed, appreciated greatly.
I can't seem to bring myself to fault this guy or really have an opinion. All I do know is I would be worried about going over but if I were a West Point graduate, perhaps I wouldn't be. I guess what it comes down to is that its a free country, and if the rule is there, it can be utilized and he should take the opportunity.
What I failed to mention was any relation to Pat Tillman and if there was any relevance or comparison but at the end of the day, I didn't find it necessary or proper.
Its a tougher issue than I thought it would be but lean towards Caleb playing if he chooses to.
8 months ago
the army gave him this option he didn't ask for it plus not everyone who goes to West Point will be deployed into combat some will serve states side i see no problem here
8 months ago
They $250,000 is certainly offset by the publicity this has generated. and ther is no certainty he be deployed anyways it is a huge possiblity believe me but some guys go over 20 years and never get deployed check out my piece on this subject. good article by the way very good
7 months ago
Nice article Mick,
From what I understand, the people who matter (i.e. the troops) unilaterally support Campbell in this endeavor. The nastiness is mostly stirred by the media and the "weekend warriors" who still think Obama and Osama are the same person. As for the $250,000, John is absolutely right. We've dumped hundreds of BILLIONS of dollars in Iraq so far, and a quarter of a million is cheap for an agency hungry for any positive press. Anything that this kid can do to up recruiting would be monumentally better for the army than simply his presence on the ground.
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