The Jets honored United States Air Force Airman First Class Michael Belew on-field as the Veteran of the Game, during the team's annual Salute to Service Game. Airman First Class Belew who joined the Air Force in 2019, underwent especial operations training, including the assessment and selection process, pre-dive training, airborne school, and combat drive school, to become a combat controller.
In 2020, Airman First Class Belew broke his neck during a diving accident that left him a quadriplegic. He is paralyzed from the chest down and suffered a traumatic brain energy during the dive.
The Jets in collaboration with Tunnel to Towers, were honored to present Airman First Class Belew and his family, with the keys to a mortgage-free, custom-built, smart home. The new home, will be designed to accommodate his needs, offers comfort and accessibility. The presentation was made by Frank Siller, Chairman and CEO of the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, alongside New York Jets Legend Tony Richardson.
"We are deeply honored to support Airman First Class Michael Belew, whose bravery and dedication to our country is inspiring," said New York Jets Military and First Responder Liaison Steven A. Castleton. "This mortgage free smart home will provide him with the independence and comfort he deserves. Additionally, the Jets are excited to collaborate with Tunnel to Towers and champion the Salute to Service cause by working closely with organizations that support the military."
"I want to thank the New York Jets for its continued support of Tunnel to Towers in its mission to provide mortgage-free homes for America's heroes. Being able to surprise Air Force Airman First Class Michael Belew on the field with the news he will receive a new forever home, as a stadium full of fans cheered him on, made for an unforgettable moment," said Frank Siller Chairman and CEO of the Tunnel to Towers Foundation.
To honor Salute to Service and all military members, the New York Jets had several activations, recognitions, and events to honor, empower and connect our nation's service members, veterans, and their families.
