Fans attending the 126th Army-Navy Game are invited to put the rivalry aside for a few hours at the Travis Manion Foundation’s annual tailgate. (Travis Manion Foundation)
BALTIMORE, Md. — When the Black Knights meet the Midshipmen on the field each year, the rivalry between the two service academies is perhaps at its strongest. Yet, just before kickoff, fans can put the bad blood aside ... if only for a few hours.
Fans attending the 126th Army-Navy game can mingle arm-in-arm at the Travis Manion Foundation’s annual tailgate.
Founded after the death of Marine Corps 1st Lt. Travis Manion in 2007, TMF unites communities by empowering veterans and families of fallen service members to develop and lead future generations.
Manion, who attended the U.S. Naval Academy prior to joining the Marine Corps, had a tradition of tailgating the Army-Navy game with family and friends. What once began as a tailgate out of the trunk of the family’s car has since grown to renting out a commercial sized parking lot.
“A friend of mine, a former Midshipmen player, told me it’s the one game of the year where everyone on the field will risk their lives for everyone in the stands,” said Josh Jabin, USNA alumni and friend of Manion.
Recounting his service as a Marine, Jabin remembered the Army units stationed in Iraq with him. “It’s about camaraderie. Whether you’re rooting for Army or Navy, it’s about honoring that legacy of service. We’re all on America’s team.”
The Travis Manion Foundation hosts a pre-game tailgate each year on the day of the Army-Navy Game. This year’s event is expected to see 4,000 attendees. (Travis Manion Foundation)
The Travis Manion Foundation’s annual tailgate ahead of the Army-Navy Game is expecting its largest crowd since its inception. (Travis Manion Foundation)
The TMF tailgate will go from 10 A.M. until kickoff at 3 P.M. Unlimited food, drinks, games and more are included in the price of admission. (Travis Manion Foundation)
With a crowd of 4,000 expected at the tailgate, the largest since its inception, Jabin had some advice for first time attendees: show up early.
“Eat and drink for a couple of hours at our tailgate. Head into the game around noon. Be a part of all the pageantry. It’s a really beautiful thing,” Jabin said. “Be a part of all the day has to offer.”
Tailgate festivities begin at 10 am. and run until kickoff. General admission to the TMF tailgate ($45) includes unlimited food, soft drinks, access to private bathrooms, heaters, giveaway items, celebrity appearances and games. Adult 21+ tickets ($70) include access to an open bar.
For more information and to purchase tickets, visit TMF’s website.
