Regarding Ben Smith’s column: “Ex-Wayne star’s trek offers dose of reality” (Feb. 1) about Jason Baker.
Baker and I have remained in contact over the last year, and I consider him a friend. He sent my son autographed cards and a letter. That made his year!
Baker is really a great person who deserves credit for all he does for the troops. I am honored to know him and have him as a friend.
There were a couple other players, Ben Hartsock of Atlanta and Cooper Carlisle of Oakland, who also made the journey with Baker, and they too have remained in contact. Hartsock took my kids and me to the Falcons training camp during my midtour leave, and Carlisle sent my soldiers cigars and Raiders gear.
These guys did not have to remain in contact but did so to try to make our year over there a little easier.
I have been on three yearlong combat tours (Iraq twice, Afghanistan once), and these guys made the last year so much better. The NFL is getting it right by choosing people who have the ability to communicate on a personal level with the troops.
I just wanted to thank you for the article and let you know that even though Jason will not admit it, he is worthy of a thank-you for what he is doing.
