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Because of his passion and dedication to those who have served in the military, the New York Giants have nominated Golden Tate nominated for the ninth annual “Salute to Service Award” presented by USAA. Each team in the National Football League nominates a player to be considered for the award. The annual award, presented by USAA and the NFL, “honors a league member who demonstrates an exemplary commitment to honoring and supporting the military community.”
The grandfathers of Tate and his wife, Elise, both served in the military. Inspired by their actions, Golden and Elise started the Golden Future Foundation in 2014 to enhance the lives of American heroes and their families.
Golden and Elise believes that the true American heroes in our country too often go unnoticed, and they deserve our respect, appreciation and resources in order to acclimate back into society after serving. For this reason, the two have dedicated resources, energy and time to help provide a Golden Future for soldiers. Golden’s passion for the cause can be seen through the events that he hosts to support military and to raise funds for his foundation. From coat drives to bowling events known as “Stars and Strikes,” Golden devotes time and resources to help give members of the military the honor and appreciate they deserve.
In the past, Golden has also participated in the NFL’s United Service Organization tours during the offseason, to further show members of the military stationed overseas respect.
Past recipients of the award include Ben Garland (2018), Andre Roberts (2017), Dan Quinn (2016), Vincent Jackson (2015), Jared Allen (2014), John Harbaugh (2013), Charles Tillman (2012), and the late Tennessee Titans owner, K.S. “Bud” Adams, a WWII veteran (2011).
Last year, the Giants nominated Phil McConkey for the 2018 Salute to Service Award. McConkey was a U.S. Navy officer and helicopter pilot for five years before playing professional football at age 27.
Finalists for the award are announced in January. The recipient will be recognized at the NFL Honors awards show in Miami on Saturday, Feb. 1, the night before the Super Bowl.