The San Diego Chargers will celebrate the 28th Annual Salute to the Military, paying tribute to hundreds of thousands of current and retired military personnel who live and work in San Diego, when they host the San Francisco 49ers on Thursday, Sept. 1 at Qualcomm Stadium. Kickoff set for 7 p.m. PT.
Fans in attendance will enjoy pregame entertainment provided by the Marine Band San Diego along with the Frog X parachute team, featuring retired navy seals who will be leaping into Qualcomm Stadium. The National Anthem will be performed by Petty Officer 1st Class Steven Powell from the U.S. Navy while 240 sailors, marines and soldiers present a U.S. Super Flag and service emblems from all branches of service. Color guards from the Navy, Marine Corps and Army will present the flag.
At halftime the Chargers will recognize six Vietnam War veterans as a remembrance of the 50th anniversary of the war. The Chargers will also have wounded warriors as special guests and a patriotic fireworks show to wrap up half-time.
At the start of the third quarter, Petty officer 1st Class Steven Powell will return to the field where he will perform God Bless America.
Several Charger players have ties to the military:
- Fullback Chris Swain attended Naval Academy Prep and is a Reserve.
- Nose tackle Brandon Mebane's father, Walter, served in the Air Force.Center Matt Slauson's brother, Chris, is in the Air Force.
- Defensive tackle Sean Lissemore's grandfathers served in the Army and fought in World War II. His maternal grandfather, David Evans, fought in France, while his paternal grandfather (Raymond Lissemore), who also served in the Korean War, fought in the Pacific theater.
- Defensive end Corey Liuget's sisters, Ideidre and Latronika, both serve in the Army.
- Cornerback Casey Hayward's cousin, Chris Duncan, is in the Army.
