They devote their lives to protecting those that they've never met, selflessly stepping forward to defend all that we hold dear in this country.
These individuals don't join the service for recognition or fame, it's just simply what they feel called to do, forgoing personal ambition to become a part of something much larger than themselves.
They're the brave few who make up our Armed Forces, and some of our nation's very best are right here in Chiefs Kingdom.
The Chiefs have a rich history of supporting our men and women in uniform throughout the years, including through the "Tribute to the Troops" program at Arrowhead Stadium, which recognizes the real heroes in our community during every home game.
That initiative will take place once again this week as Sergeant Nicholas Tincher will be recognized as the "Tribute to the Troops" honoree as the Chiefs take on the Los Angeles Chargers on Sunday afternoon.
A member of the Army Reserves, Tincher first joined the service in 2012 as he followed the example set by his father and grandfather.
"Ever since I could remember as a kid, I always wanted to join the military," Tincher said. "My father and grandpa were both in the military, so I thought I needed to serve as well."
Tincher went on to earn a role as a Horizonal Construction Engineer, which tasked him with operating heavy equipment such as excavators and bulldozers. As a sergeant, he was also responsible for leading his platoon, from directing drill duties on weekends to ensuring the general wellbeing of his fellow soldiers.
Tincher had the opportunity to put all of those skills to the test at various points during his six years in service of our country, but when asked if a singular experience stood out, the native of nearby Spring Hill, Kansas recalled an instance in which he and his platoon helped to improve a small town.
"One year, my platoon got sent up to Montrose, Minnesota to help that small town start to build a park," Tincher said. "We worked there for three weeks and set the groundwork for all they had planned there. For example, we leveled hills for baseball fields and removed softer earth to replace with better dirt for parking lots. It was nice to help a small community."
That experience was one of many in which Tincher bettered the lives of those around him, and as the Chiefs take on the Chargers this weekend, the Arrowhead faithful will have a chance to show him some much-deserved appreciation.
"Every game, you see the Chiefs give a shout out to a service member, which always gives me the chills when I'm in the stands," said Tincher, a lifelong Chiefs fan. "I still can't believe it's going to be me, and I feel so honored I have been chosen for this."
