In honor of Veterans Day (Nov. 11, 2021), the New Orleans Saints along with Community Coffee will honor a local fallen soldier in their ‘Salute to Service’.
Sunday’s (Nov. 7) game at the Ceasar’s Superdome will feature US Army PFC Brian R. Bates Jr. as the honorary captain. Bates was a native of Gretna, Louisiana, and was killed on duty in October 2009 when his vehicle was struck with an IED. He received a Bronze Star Medal, Purple Heart Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Medal, Combat Infantry Badge, Expert with Rifle Bar, and Overseas Service Bar.
Bates’ family will be in attendance and the team will wear a decal with his initials ‘BB’ on their helmets.
The Saints will host division rival Atlanta Falcons with the kickoff at Noon.
