Having an opportunity to play service academy rival Air Force on the 20th anniversary of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks on the United States is a tremendous honor for every Navy football player.
For John Kelly III, who has spent his whole life hearing about the events of 9/11, this game takes on even greater significance. The senior linebacker will try to play with even more energy and passion than normal since his father will be watching from the stands at Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium as the Midshipmen and Falcons recognize the anniversary through sport.
Kelly is determined to play well and make an impact as tribute to the nearly 3,000 Americans killed on that fateful day.