CAMP SHELBY JOINT FORCES TRAINING CENTER, Miss. — Brett Favre, Mississippi native and retired NFL quarterback, recently visited Soldiers of the 1st Battalion, 134th Field Artillery Regiment, 37th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, who are training for an upcoming deployment in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.
Favre made a surprise visit Oct. 25 in support of Task Force Roc, Ohio Army National Guard, as they continue their mobilization training before deploying in support of Overseas Contingency Operations.
The former University of Southern Mississippi quarterback began his visit by attending a commander's call with Col. Steve Parham, CSJFTC post commander, followed by an opportunity to surprise more than 500 Ohio National Guard troops at Camp Shelby's Dolton Hall Theater.
Sgt. 1st Class Douglas Boyer, of Headquarters and Headquarters Battery, 1-134th Field Artillery, served as moderator of the question-and-answer-style interview. Favre spoke about motivation, teamwork and team cohesion, and expressed to Soldiers that they have to be willing to take risks and overcome adversity. He reminded them that things will not always be good.
"It comes down to the chemistry and how it all works together," said Favre in describing teamwork. "It's kind of like gumbo; all the ingredients have to be right."
Favre, who recently retired from the NFL after an impressive 20-year career, was reminded of his tremendous records, both good and not so good. He played in 321 consecutive games, and is the only quarterback to throw for more than 70,000 yards, and also has the most career touchdown passes. In the same breath, Boyer also pointed out he held records for the most interceptions thrown, fumbles and sacks.
"I don't remember that," Favre said jokingly.
When asked to give advice to Soldiers facing enormous challenges, Favre said he could never compare what he did in games to what a Soldier faces or could potentially face, but he pointed out the teamwork, work ethic and mindset is very similar.
"Only a few people are able to do it, compared to the real world," Favre said.
Favre said he's had the opportunity to be part of some great things, but to be invited and asked to speak to Soldiers who were preparing to deploy overseas gave him a special feeling.
"Words can't express my gratitude towards them," said Favre.
Many Soldiers said they were excited and surprised to see Favre.
"It was a nice and welcomed surprise," said Pvt. Bradley Bush, a member of Battery B, Task Force Roc. "It made me think of the teamwork needed to get the mission accomplished."
Bush said he was grateful that he was one of the Soldiers who had the chance to have a football autographed by Favre. He said it would not be just for him, but for his entire battery.
Members of Task Force Roc will soon be departing from Camp Shelby, Miss., on a 10-month deployment to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. |
