KANSAS CITY, Mo. – This afternoon, the Kansas City Chiefs announced Chiefs Legend and Kansas City Ambassador Kendall Gammon as the team's nominee for the 2026 Salute to Service Award, presented by USAA. The annual award recognizes NFL players, coaches, staff, and alumni who demonstrate an exceptional commitment to supporting U.S. service members, veterans, and their families.
Now in its 16th year, the Salute to Service Award recognizes individuals across the league who go above and beyond to honor, empower, and connect with the military community. Gammon was selected as the Chiefs nominee in recognition of his years of dedication to supporting service members, veterans, and their families, drawing inspiration from his father, a U.S. Air Force veteran.
"The commitment Kendall has shown our servicemen and women, veterans, and their families is a testament to the man he has continued to be since his time on the field," Chiefs Vice President of Community Outreach and Alumni Affairs Chuck Castellano said. "His service to those in our community who have made the ultimate sacrifice protecting our country honors exactly what we value in our building and on behalf of our organization, I am proud of the work Kendall has done to be nominated for the Salute to Service Award."
Following a 15-year NFL career, Gammon has used his experiences with adversity, mental health challenges and the transition from professional football to connect with veterans navigating similar challenges after military service.
"I am truly honored to be nominated as the Kansas City Chiefs representative for the Salute to Service Award," Gammon said. "It means so much to have the opportunity to support service members, veterans, and their families who have given so much in service to our country. Connecting with Kansas City's military community has been incredibly meaningful and has allowed me to stay close to Chiefs Kingdom in a special way."
Gammon previously served as chief development officer for War Horses for Veterans, working directly with veterans and first responders through equine-based experiences designed to build confidence, trust, communication and resilience. Through the organization, he served as a mentor and advocate, helping participants develop skills and connections to support their well-being. His commitment also extends to recognizing veterans through meaningful experiences. During an event hosted by Friends in Service of Heroes, Gammon spoke with veterans and, with support from the Chiefs, surprised attendees with 50 personalized game balls modeled after those awarded to Chiefs players for outstanding performances.
Gammon has also visited Whiteman Air Force Base on multiple occasions, spoken at its Chief Master Sergeant Recognition Ceremony and delivered the keynote address at a University of Kansas ROTC commissioning ceremony. He has additionally supported the National WWI Museum and Memorial, including participating in the ceremonial "First Pass" during a Chiefs Salute to Service game alongside Museum and Memorial President and CEO Dr. Matthew Naylor. Through his mentorship, advocacy and continued engagement with military organizations, Gammon has demonstrated a commitment to ensuring service members and veterans feel recognized, valued and supported.
Fans Can Vote for Kendall Gammon
Gammon is one of 32 nominees announced today by the NFL and USAA, an official NFL Salute to Service partner. Fans can show their support by voting at NFL.com/SaluteFanVote from now through Monday, Nov. 30 at 10:59 p.m. CST. One vote per nominee per day is permitted.
Fan voting will help determine the award's three finalists, who will be announced in January 2027. The award recipient will be recognized at NFL Honors, the league's annual primetime awards special, during the week of Super Bowl LXI in Los Angeles.
As the award's presenting sponsor, USAA, a leading provider of insurance and banking to U.S. military members, veterans and their families, will contribute $25,000 in the recipient's name to official aid societies representing all U.S. military branches. The NFL Foundation will match USAA's contribution by donating an additional $25,000 to the recipient's military nonprofit charity of choice.
About Salute to Service
Through Salute to Service, USAA, the NFL and its 32 clubs honor, empower and connect with service members, veterans and their families year-round. During Weeks 9-11 of the regular season, clubs will recognize the military community through on-field branding, military appreciation activities and other game day events.
For more information about Salute to Service, visit NFL.com/Salute.
