It takes a lot of time and effort to become a professional athlete. First of all, you need to have the innate talent that gives you a chance of getting to an elite level. That’s not enough though: you need to have the work ethic and mental discipline to ensure all of that talent doesn’t go to waste. It can take years to get to the top level. However, some star athletes served their country as members of the military.
Not only are they heroes on the sports field, but they’re also heroes for their country. Some entered through the draft while others volunteered. At the end of the day, they all did their duty. Prepare for a whole bunch of legendary baseball players who served in WW2. A special mention goes to Muhammad Ali who refused to fight in Vietnam. He said “I ain’t got no quarrel with them Viet Congs,” and we respect that.
Professional athletes are often treated as heroes. But some sports stars are actually heroes. Check out 40 pro stars who served on active duty via The Sports Drop.
40. Alejandro Villaneuva
Villaneuva currently plays for the Pittsburgh Steelers in the NFL. The offensive tackle is a two-time Pro Bowler but his achievements off of the playing field are even more incredible. There aren’t many active NFL stars who can say that they served in Afghanistan. However, Villaneuva did exactly that. After he played for Army, he served for three tours of duty in the Middle East.
The former serviceman underwent many missions and even saw active combat. Villaneuva is a true American hero because he rescued some of his fellow troops under fire. After this, the Army awarded him with the Bronze Star for valor. The former ranger is a unique personality to have in a locker room because he saw things that no man should ever have to endure.