CHAMPAIGN, IL (Chambana Today) – Illinois football head coach Bret Bielema and his family have launched an initiative to honor heroes for this year’s Military Appreciation Day at Memorial Stadium.
“Our family believes deeply in honoring those who sacrifice so much for our freedom and safety,” said Bielema. “We are grateful for the opportunity to say thank you and give them the chance to enjoy a day of celebration, recognition, and Illini Football.”
In recognition of Military Appreciation Day on November 15 against Maryland, Bielema has pledged to personally match every donated ticket purchased by Fighting Illini fans as part of a campaign to bring veterans, active-duty military, and their families to Memorial Stadium.
Fans are invited to participate by purchasing specially designated $20 tickets for the sole purpose of donating them to those who have served or continue to serve our communities and country. These tickets will not be for fan use, but will be distributed directly to military and service-focused organizations so recipients can attend the Military Appreciation Game at no cost.
Tickets for the Military Appreciation initiative will be distributed by Vet Tix. Those interested in obtaining tickets through the program can register by visiting www.vettix.org and creating an account.