Brian Ford, Chief Operating Officer of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, has been nominated for the 2025 NFL Salute to Service Award presented by USAA. This marks Ford’s second consecutive nomination, recognizing his extensive dedication to honoring U.S. service members throughout his 19 seasons with the Buccaneers.
Ford’s Military Support and Recognition
Ford received the U.S. Special Operations Command Medal this year from U.S. Army Gen. Bryan P. Fenton for his significant contributions to special operations. He initiated a quarterly program awarding personalized game balls to distinguished service members at U.S. Central Command. Additionally, Ford personally invites numerous military members and their families to Buccaneers home games and leads the team’s Salute to Service initiatives, including annual visits to MacDill Air Force Base and the establishment of the General H Norman Schwarzkopf Military Family of the Year Award.
Community Engagement and Awards
Graduated from the 927th Air Refueling Wing Honorary Commander Program and appointed an Air Force Reserve Command Civic Leader, Ford has been recognized with awards such as the Air Force Public Affairs Association President’s Award in 2023 and the CENTCOM “Iron Mike” award. He also supports Tampa’s Special Operations Forces Transition Assistance Resource to assist veterans’ career transitions.
Upcoming Salute to Service Game
The Buccaneers will host the New England Patriots in a Salute to Service Game at Raymond James Stadium on November 9, 2025. The event will include a halftime Oath of Enlistment ceremony for over 300 new U.S. Armed Forces recruits, reinforcing the team’s strong military appreciation traditions.
Fans can vote for the NFL Salute to Service Award recipient through November 30, with the winner announced in January and honored during NFL Honors in February.
Source: Original report