'Any chance we have to give back to the people who have done so much for us -- well, we've got to take advantage of that'

Sep. 28--Florida A&M will take on Norfolk State in football on Saturday. On Friday, the visiting team had other work to do.

Some teams use the time after traveling for a game to relax and prepare, but Florida A&M head coach Willie Simmons tries to give his team memorable and educational experiences. Which is why a bus full of players and administrators made a stop at the Hampton Veterans Administration Hospital.

"Any chance we have to give back to the people who have done so much for us -- well, we've got to take advantage of that," Simmons said. "It's always important to recognize our veterans and the service they've provided for us."

About eight of the approximately 15 football players visiting the hospital stood huddled around Chris Landers -- an Army veteran who served during Desert Storm. They asked Landers questions about his home in Texas and his time in the military as a helicopter pilot.

While he enjoyed talking with the players, he said he hoped their time at the hospital would give them a new understanding of the sacrifices servicemen and women make -- some of his friends and family made the ultimate sacrifice for their county when they died while serving.

"It bothers the veterans that people don't realize where their freedom came from," Landers said.

Most of the visit was spent in the community living center and talking to veterans with spinal cord injuries. Many of the veterans were in wheelchairs and some were missing limbs.

Hospital spokesman John Rodgers said he'd love to see other groups come to visit because the excitement among the staff and veterans was palpable.

"It's been eye-opening and heartwarming -- thought-provoking because it really makes you grateful for the fact that the players can run and score touchdowns and kick field goals," said Carmen Cummings, assistant vice president of university engagement. "But every action here requires thought. The folks here at the hospital make life liveable for those who have served."

Simmons has made coaching about more than just producing student-athletes, Cummings said. He's helping turn the players into men that will be able to leave their mark on the community after graduation, she added.

The best part was knowing the team did something that brought smiles to the veterans' faces, said quarterback Ryan Stanley.

"To actually be here and witness what some of these veterans go through on a daily basis -- it can be life-changing," said Elijah Richardson, linebacker. "It's been a reminder to never take life for granted and to be thankful for what you have."

The visit was an opportunity to make the people who may not get much attention from society feel seen, university first lady Sharon Robinson said as she addressed the team at the end of the visit.

She encouraged the players to keep the experience in their minds as a life lesson.

"These are people who gave through courage, character and commitment -- they served our country," Robinson said.

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