The remarkable journeys of five individuals from the battlefields to the football fields embody the spirit of resilience and leadership. These men, who served their country with honor, went on to shine in the NFL, demonstrating that the skills and discipline learned in the military can lead to extraordinary success in sports and beyond.
Their legacy is a powerful reminder of how dedication and hard work, rooted in a commitment to a greater cause, can lead to legendary successes in any field. At IHG® Army Hotels, we honor this spirit by providing exceptional service and comfort to all our guests, celebrating the same values of leadership and dedication shown by these great athletes and veterans.
Bob Kalsu - The Vietnam War
Years of Service: 1968–1970
Branch: U.S. Army
NFL Career: Offensive lineman for the Buffalo Bills
Posthumous Honors: Honored by the Buffalo Bills and in various military memorials
Bob Kalsu was born on April 13, 1945, in Oklahoma City. He attended the University of Oklahoma, where he distinguished himself both academically and athletically, earning All-American honors as an offensive guard. His strong leadership and performance on the field were early indicators of his dedication and commitment.
After being drafted by the Buffalo Bills in 1968, Kalsu played only one season before answering the call of duty. With the Vietnam War escalating, he chose to fulfill his ROTC obligation and was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Army.
Kalsu was assigned to the 101st Airborne Division and was deployed to Vietnam. His time in the service was characterized by the same leadership and bravery he exhibited on the football field. Tragically, Kalsu was killed in action in 1970 during the Battle of Ripcord, making him the only professional American athlete to die in combat during the Vietnam War.
Though his professional sports career was brief, Kalsu’s sacrifice and valor have been commemorated extensively. The Buffalo Bills retired his jersey, and his name is enshrined in various military memorials, ensuring his legacy endures both in sports and in service to his country.
Kalsu’s story is a poignant reminder of the ultimate sacrifice made by some athletes, intertwining the realms of professional sports and national service with profound personal commitment and heroism.
https://www.buffalobills.com/team/alumni/wall-of-fame-profiles/bob-kalsu
https://fanbuzz.com/nfl/bob-kalsu-vietnam-buffalo-bills-wall/
Roger Staubach - The Vietnam War
Years of Service: 1965–1969
Branch: U.S. Navy
NFL Career: Quarterback for the Dallas Cowboys; Super Bowl VI MVP
Roger Staubach was born on February 5, 1942, in Cincinnati, Ohio. From an early age, Staubach excelled in athletics, particularly football, which earned him a spot at the U.S. Naval Academy. As a Midshipman, he won the Heisman Trophy in 1963, showcasing his prowess as a top college football player.
After graduating in 1965, Staubach served in the U.S. Navy, including a tour of duty in Vietnam as a Supply Corps officer. His military service spanned four years, during which he exemplified the same leadership and commitment he was known for on the football field.
https://www.grunge.com/903258/how-long-cowboys-legend-roger-staubach-really-served-in-vietnam/
After completing his service in 1969, Staubach joined the Dallas Cowboys as a quarterback and had a stellar NFL career that included two Super Bowl victories, with a memorable performance as the MVP of Super Bowl VI. His ability to perform under pressure earned him the nickname "Captain Comeback," highlighting his knack for turning challenging game situations around. Staubach was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1985.
https://www.profootballhof.com/players/roger-staubach/
https://www.britannica.com/biography/Roger-Staubach
Art Donovan - World War II
Years of Service: 1942–1946
Branch: U.S. Marine Corps
NFL Career: Defensive tackle for the Baltimore Colts; Member of two NFL championship teams
Hall of Fame Induction: 1968
Art Donovan was born on June 5, 1924, in the Bronx, New York. Known for his robust personality and formidable presence on the field, Donovan's journey to football greatness began after his military service. He enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps during World War II, serving with distinction in the Pacific Theater. His service included participation in some of the most intense battles of the war— Iwo Jima and Okinawa.
After the war, Donovan attended Boston College before embarking on his professional football career. He played for the Baltimore Colts and became one of the most dominant defensive tackles in the NFL during the 1950s. His prowess on the field helped lead the Colts to championships in 1958 and 1959, with the former referred to as "The Greatest Game Ever Played."
Donovan's quick wit and good-natured personality made him a beloved figure both on and off the field. His contributions to the sport were recognized with his induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1968.
Donovan remains a symbol of the enduring American spirit, successfully bridging his heroic military service with a legendary sports career. His legacy is celebrated as a testament to the character and determination that defined both his time in the Marine Corps and the NFL.
https://www.nfl.com/news/art-donovan-a-baltimore-legend-on-and-off-the-field-0ap1000000226224
https://www.profootballhof.com/news/2013/08/news-art-donovan-1925-2013/
Gino Marchetti - World War II
Years of Service: 1944–1946
Branch: U.S. Army
NFL Career: Defensive end for the Dallas Texans and the Baltimore Colts; Member of multiple NFL championship teams
Hall of Fame Induction: 1972
Gino Marchetti was born on January 2, 1926, in Smithers, West Virginia. Before embarking on his storied NFL career, Marchetti served in the U.S. Army during World War II. He was directly involved in one of the war's most intense conflicts, the Battle of the Bulge. https://www.espn.com/espn/page2/story?sportCat=nfl&page=marchetti/091111
After the war, Marchetti attended the University of San Francisco, where he played college football and helped lead his team to an undefeated season in 1951. His transition to professional football began with the Dallas Texans before he became a cornerstone player for the Baltimore Colts. Known for his fierce defensive play, Marchetti played a pivotal role in the Colts' championships in 1958 and 1959.
Marchetti's impact on the field was immense, earning him 11 Pro Bowl selections and a reputation as one of the greatest defensive ends in NFL history. His playing style was characterized by relentless effort and a deep understanding of the game, which were key to his success and the respect he garnered from teammates and opponents alike.
Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1972, Marchetti's legacy extends beyond his athletic achievements. His experiences during World War II shaped his tenacity and leadership, attributes that he carried into his football career and later life. His life story embodies the spirit of determination and excellence, making him a lasting icon in American sports history.
https://www.profootballhof.com/players/gino-marchetti/
Don Shula - Korean War
Years of Service: Early 1950s
Branch: Ohio National Guard
NFL Career: Head coach for the Baltimore Colts and the Miami Dolphins; led the Dolphins to the NFL's only perfect season
Hall of Fame Induction: 1997
Don Shula was born in 1930, in Grand River, Ohio. Before becoming a legendary figure in NFL coaching, Shula served in the Ohio National Guard and was deployed during the Korean War. This period of military service played a crucial role in shaping his leadership qualities and his disciplined approach to coaching.
https://military-history.fandom.com/wiki/Don_Shula
After his service, Shula turned to football coaching, starting at the collegiate level before making his mark in the NFL. He became the head coach of the Baltimore Colts and later the Miami Dolphins. Under his guidance, the Dolphins achieved unparalleled success, including two Super Bowl victories and the only perfect season in NFL history in 1972, finishing 17-0.
Shula's coaching career was characterized by his incredible attention to detail, strong work ethic, and ability to adapt to different game situations. His 347 career wins are a testament to his longevity and success in the league, making him one of the most successful coaches in NFL history.
Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1997, Shula's contributions to football have left a lasting impact on the sport. His post-coaching years continued to reflect his commitment to excellence and community, as he engaged in various charitable activities and maintained a significant presence in the sports community.
Shula remains a symbol of excellence in both his military and sports careers, embodying the values of leadership, perseverance, and discipline. His legacy in the NFL and his impact on the game are celebrated by fans and professionals alike, marking him as one of the true giants of American football.
https://www.profootballhof.com/players/don-shula/
https://www.britannica.com/biography/Don-Shula
Pat Tillman - War on Terror, Iraq and Afghanistan
Years of Service: 2002–2004
Branch: U.S. Army
NFL Career: Linebacker for the Arizona Cardinals
Hall of Fame Induction: 2010 (posthumously)
Pat Tillman was born in San Jose, California on November 6, 1976. From an early age, Tillman demonstrated tenacity and leadership skills in the classroom and on the football field. He led his high school football team to a Central Coast Division I Football Championship – even though he had been told he was too small to play the sport.
Tillman’s success continued at Arizona State. Among his many accomplishments, he led the Sun Devils to the 1997 Rose Bowl after an undefeated season and earned three consecutive selections to the Pac-10 All-Academic Football Team.
The Arizona Cardinals drafted Tillman in 1998 and he became the team’s starting safety. In 2000, he broke the franchise’s record for tackles with 224.
After the September 11th terrorist attacks, Tillman decided to put his NFL career on hold so that he could serve. In July 2002, Tilman enlisted in the Army and served with the elite Army Rangers in Operation Iraqi Freedom and in Afghanistan for Operation Enduring Freedom. On April 22, 2004, Tillman was killed in a “friendly fire” incident after his unit was ambushed in the rugged terrain of eastern Afghanistan. He had been providing cover for his fellow soldiers while they escaped. Tillman was posthumously awarded the Silver Star, and inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2010. Tillman’s legacy lives on through the Pat Tillman Foundation, which provides support for active-duty service members, veterans, and military spouses.
Honoring Those Who Served
The remarkable stories of these veterans and NFL stars inspire awe and profound respect. These men have demonstrated that the values learned in military service—discipline, teamwork, resilience, and leadership—transcend the boundaries of the battlefield and are just as applicable on the football field. Their ability to lead, inspire, and succeed under pressure serves as a testament to their character and dedication, qualities they carried over into their sports careers, enriching both the game of football and the communities they touched.
Through their stories, we are reminded of the incredible sacrifices made by those who serve and the extraordinary heights they can achieve post-service. It's a powerful reminder of the strength and versatility of our veterans and the ongoing commitment of IHG Army Hotels to serve those who have dedicated their lives to serving us.
To book a room with IHG Army Hotels, visit www.ihgarmyhotels.com.
Lendlease is the owner, design-builder, asset manager, and the exclusive developer for the Privatization of Army Lodging (PAL) portfolio, the Department of Defense’s only lodging privatization program. IHG Hotel & Resorts is the hotel operator and manager of IHG Army Hotels.