New England Patriots quarterback Drake Maye recently teamed up with USAA, Official NFL Salute to Service Partner, and The American Legion to surprise an Army veteran with tickets to this year’s Super Bowl in New Orleans.
“I’m so going to enjoy going to the Super Bowl,” Matt Jabaut said during the surprise ticket presentation at American Legion Post 202 in Maine. “I’ve never been to one before.”
Maye’s grandfather served in the Navy.
“Knowing my grandfather served, I have so much respect and gratitude for the men and women who’ve served our country, like Staff Sgt. Jabaut,” said Maye. “I’m so excited to have teamed up with USAA and The American Legion to gift Matt this once-in-a-lifetime experience, and I’m looking forward to seeing him again in New Orleans.”
Jabaut served as a combat medic throughout his nearly decade-long Army career, including a combat tour in 2002-03 to Kuwait and Iraq.
Jabautin now works in human resources and is an active member of Post 202. He gave Maye a tour during their visit.
“This post is a historical place that goes back to the founding of our organization both in Maine and nationally,” he said. “The history and the stuff that’s contained in this place is amazing.”
Jabaut is a long-time Patriots fan and Maye is one of his favorite players. The pair also had the chance to toss around the pigskin during the visit.
“How many people get to catch a pass thrown by an NFL quarterback,” he said.
Jabaut now lives in Lewiston, Maine and will bring his fiancé Caroline, who served in the Navy, as his guest to the Super Bowl.
Reach Julia LeDoux at Julia@connectingvets.com.