Training camp closes with Military Appreciation Day

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) -- This year's Chiefs Training Camp has officially come to an end.
The camp wrapped up on Wednesday, Aug. 13, with Military Appreciation Day -- a practice dedicated to honoring veterans.
"It means a lot to us," said United States Air Force Senior Airman Rachel McKinney. "It's really nice that they invite us out, show us their appreciation, and we're happy to come out and support the Chiefs as well."
Many branches set up tents and tables for public viewing and to speak with fans walking by. Navy Chief Thomas Cooper wanted to spread Navy awareness to the region.
"(The) Navy is not really well known in the Kansas City Area," Cooper said. "It's kind of hard to float ships up the Missouri River, so it makes things a little difficult to spread the awareness around."
The NFL through the Salute to Service initiative has shown their appreciation toward service members. Fans could be seen wearing Salute to Service Chiefs jerseys at camp.
"I think (to) actually be able to support, not only people that are currently serving but the veterans in the area is awesome," Cooper said. "The Salute to Service games are always my favorite, I always buy the Salute to Service swag for the Chiefs when it becomes available."
One veteran, wearing that style jersey, showed up to camp to support his favorite team and watch the new Chiefs play. Clarence Hall, an Army veteran who retired after a hip and leg injury, now serves in the medical field as an ER nurse.
"I love it, I love to purchase anything that supports the troops," Hall said. "It is fun to get the new jersey or the new hat that they come out with each year for the teams."
Military Appreciation Day finished with veterans on the field breaking the final training camp huddle of the year.
"I think all veterans are sensitive to how the Vietnam vets were treated," Hall said. "Anything that recognizes the sacrifices that even the men and women who haven't been in combat yet -- just acknowledge their service because it is something that should be celebrated."