In Seattle, retired Master Sergeant Chris Block, a combat veteran, was awarded a pair of Super Bowl tickets last week through a collaboration between USAA and former University of Washington star Rome Odunze. The two met for the first time on Saturday in San Francisco during the NFL’s Super Bowl Experience event.
Chris Block’s Military Career and Honors
Chris Block served for 15 years in the United States Air Force and the Alaska National Guard before relocating to Seattle. His decorated military career includes receiving the Outstanding Air Force Unit Award with Valor. In 2010, he was involved in recovery efforts following the Sitka 43 plane crash in Alaska that claimed the lives of four crew members. Block also completed deployments to Afghanistan, Pakistan, Qatar, and Korea.
Odunze’s Partnership with Military Organizations
Rome Odunze collaborated with the Wounded Warrior Project and USAA, a financial services group supporting military personnel, veterans, and their families, to provide this special gift. Odunze publicly announced on social media that Block was chosen to receive the tickets, reflecting his dedication to giving back to the community.
Meeting at the Super Bowl Experience Lounge
The two met inside the USAA Salute to Service lounge at the NFL’s Super Bowl Experience. Block expressed his disbelief and excitement about the opportunity.
“You couldn’t script it and it doesn’t feel real. Whatever happens (Sunday), we’re excited to be part of it,”
he said following the meeting.
Odunze on Honoring Veterans and Supporting the Community
Odunze emphasized his commitment to supporting those who serve, especially as a fellow University of Washington alum.
“Any way I can give back, that’s what I’m looking to do. I’m very blessed and in position to give back to the community, especially coming from UW is an honor, Obviously we’re all protected and at debt to he service members that do a lot for us,”
Odunze said. He added,
“He’s well deserving of it. It’s an honor to accomplish that for him. It’s huge, especially with the Seahawks in it.”
Sharing a Special Experience with Family
Block will attend the Super Bowl with his 6-year-old daughter, Willow. He reflected on the personal impact of receiving recognition.
“It’s hard for me to take recognition or to say I deserve this, deserved is a tough word. When someone shows genuine love to my daughter, it fills me with…,”
he said before trailing off.
Reflection on Service and Community
Block shared how his military service shapes his perspective on community and hope.
“I recovered the four guys that were part of that flight and I think about those guys every day. I think it builds strength, it’s one of those things where the service becomes more important, then. Community (and) sports… just in general they drive people together. Those are the communications of hope,”
he said.
Significance of the Gesture and Anticipation Ahead
This generous gesture exemplifies the ongoing support and connection between athletes, veterans, and the military community. As the Super Bowl approaches, Block and his daughter’s experience highlights the meaningful impact such recognition can have on those who have served the country. It also sets a positive example of giving back for others within the sporting and veteran communities.
