MARINE CORPS BASE HAWAII, KANEOHE BAY, Hawaii -- Every year, the Pro Bowl comes to the island of Oahu and unites football fans of all ages for an exciting game of fast-paced football. This year, one of the NFL's star players came to MCB Hawaii, Kaneohe Bay, to spend some time with Marines, Sailors and the youngsters who cheered him on during the 2003-2004 season.
Green Bay Packers guard Marco Rivera arrived aboard K-Bay, Feb. 5, and met with many excited service and family members at Pop Warner Field.
"I appreciate what the military service members stand and fight for," said the 6-foot-4-inch Rivera. "I do not think Marines and Sailors get enough credit for what they do. A lot of them spend a lot of time away from their children and families to make sure ours are safe.
"I love my country and feel honored to meet and shake the hands of the men and women that defend it," he said.
Rivera introduced himself to fans and then spent some time doing several stretches before running a variety of basic football drills. Several members of the MCB Hawaii Intramural Football Team also helped the kids.
"Once a year, the Pro Bowl comes around, and MCB Hawaii always does its best to show support," said Ed Hanlon, a public relations coordinator for Marine Corps Community Services Hawaii. "This year, we were fortunate enough to host Marco Rivera. He seemed to be honored to have a chance to spend time with Marines, Sailors and their family members."
Before departing MCB Hawaii, Rivera sat at the front of a long line of fans. He signed shirts, sports jerseys, footballs and a variety of photos of himself.
"I enjoyed mostly playing with the kids out here," explained Rivera. "I have a football camp in San Juan, Puerto Rico. These kids are our future, and I like nothing more than to give them a helping hand and encourage them to excel in life.
"I believe that just playing and talking with children can give them an outlet to learn through sports, and make positive accomplishments in life."