Report: Pentagon PAYS pro-sports teams to HONOR our military at events.

I think this is a misconception. These things are designed as recruiting events, specifically for the Army, not to honor troops. The perception may be honor, but the intent is to put the name and uniform of the Army out there. The NFL isn't being paid to honor troops, they are being paid to use their field and TV time.

If this has been the process in the past and it can be proven that it results in new enlistments, it could be worth it. However, that is giving way too much credit to the DOD. You can bet that most of these contracts are given to companies that will hire the same people that authorize the spending.

I read the report and do not think DoD should be paying this money. These sports teams should do it because it is the right thing to do.

If you have to pay someone to show respect and patriotism, then that is just a crock of scheisse to me.

I for one am fine with the Pentagon doing this. I can tell you that never in my 18+ years of service have I felt more appreciated than I do today. The Pentagon paying these funds to these teams results in us and our service being highlighted in front of millions of spectators each and every event and it results in increased patriotism. Have you turned on the news lately? How much do you hear about the war and what our troops are doing right this minute in Iraq, Afghanistan and all the other places out there. I'm telling you right now, the average American would forget us overnight...especially those that don't live in a military community...if it wasn't for publicity that is provided through venues like sporting events. In my opinion, it is good for us and keeps us relevant in the average, self-absorbed American's life. If they stop this practice, all of us will "disappear" in a matter of years. Mark my words....

This one strikes close to me. We conduct local events that are similar in order to rally support and share the message. Typically we fund events (booth space, banners, parking). It is a stretch to say we bought patriotism as these events often happen without payments. Only the high visibility dates require payment. While I would love to be offered free venues schools are often faced with funding challenges (not colleges or the NFL/NBA/MLB).

It's been reported and even discussed here in another thread. It's vile the fact this is being done. And goes to show not everything is what it appears to be. That mystery troop who "suddenly" comes home? Or miraculously on leave at the right time?

I can believe it! I played in the Marine Corps band we played for several sporting events. Usually recruiting command would sponsor it! I think its outrageous that the government would have to pay a profession team to honor troops! Just sad!

Pays them??? What a load of crap. They should feel honored to do it, and not want to be paid.

If Pentagon and National Guard would be transparent and say it is actually for recruitment purposes, that might be ok. But why would DoD need to hide that, when they openly pay for TV, radio and internet recruitment ads? What else would the military gain by paying NFL teams for the recognition?