During a recent Green Bay Packers home game against the Seattle Seahawks, the team and Network Health honored two local heroes through their longstanding program, Operation Fan Mail. U.S. Navy veteran Todd Hope and his son, U.S. Army veteran Sam Hope, were recognized on the field for their dedicated military service and lifelong loyalty to the Packers. The tribute marked a heartfelt moment in the 19th season of this initiative, which shines a spotlight on military families and veterans at every Packers home game.

Operation Fan Mail has become a cherished tradition at Lambeau Field, offering fans a chance to applaud those who have served their country. This particular recognition carried added meaning, as it celebrated not just individual service but a family legacy of commitment, sacrifice, and shared devotion to both country and team. Todd and Sam Hope, both Green Bay natives, exemplify the values the program seeks to honor.

Todd Hope served in the U.S. Navy for two decades, working as a diesel mechanic and ensuring the operational readiness of the fleet. His deployments included critical missions off the coast of Iraq and in Pakistan during Operation Desert Storm. Rising to the rank of Chief Petty Officer (E-7), Todd’s service reflects years of technical expertise and leadership under demanding conditions. His dedication to duty laid a powerful example for his son to follow.

Inspired by his father’s service, Sam Hope enlisted in the U.S. Army in 2011 as an infantryman. Over the course of four and a half years, he was stationed in various locations including Korea, Japan, and Thailand, as well as at Fort Benning and Fort Carson in the United States. His commitment to the military extended beyond his initial enlistment, as he signed on for an additional five years. However, his career was cut short by a medical discharge following an injury.

The Hope family’s story is one of resilience, connection, and shared pride. Despite the physical distance that military service often brings, the Packers remained a constant presence in their lives. Sam recalled watching games every Sunday as a child, a tradition that continued even when he was stationed overseas. The team served as a thread that helped keep the family close through the challenges of military life.

During the game, Todd and Sam attended alongside their wives, Jessica and Alyssa. The recognition was made even more meaningful by the fact that Sam had nominated his father for the honor. This gesture underscored the mutual admiration between father and son, and the deep respect they share for each other’s service.

Since its debut in 2007, Operation Fan Mail has honored a total of 218 families. Each season, the Packers and Network Health select military families to receive four game tickets and public recognition on the field. The program is open to active duty service members, veterans, and their immediate families, including spouses, parents, children, and siblings. Families can be nominated by themselves or by others through a short essay submission.

Essays of 500 words or less can be submitted by mail or online, detailing why a particular family should be recognized. The initiative not only brings well-deserved attention to those who have served, but also fosters a sense of community and appreciation among fans. I found this detail striking: the program doesn’t just celebrate service—it celebrates the enduring bonds that service members maintain with their families and hometowns, even while stationed around the world.

For the Hopes, being honored at Lambeau Field was more than just a game-day experience. It was a moment of reflection and gratitude, shared with thousands of fellow fans. Their story highlights the deep ties between military families and their communities, and the role that traditions—like cheering for a hometown team—can play in maintaining those connections.

The Packers’ commitment to recognizing military service through Operation Fan Mail speaks to the broader values of respect and unity. By spotlighting families like the Hopes, the program reminds us of the personal stories behind the uniforms, and the lasting impact of service on individuals and their loved ones.

As the Packers prepare for another season of Operation Fan Mail, they continue to invite nominations for future honorees. Whether through a shared love of football or a shared commitment to service, these stories bring fans together and honor those who have given so much.

Read more at packers.com