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 GEHA Field 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 Staff Sergeant Larry Potter will be recognized as the "Tribute to the Troops" honoree presented by Crown Royal during the Chiefs' matchup against the Los Angeles Chargers.
A member of the U.S. Army since 2009, Potter deployed to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom in 2012.
"This deployment was a life-changing and emotional experience for me, especially since I was young and early in my career at the time," Potter recalled. "It opened my eyes to how different people live in other parts of the world, and I built unbreakable bonds with the men and women I served alongside."
Potter, who credits his growth as an individual and a soldier to his deployment, has risen through the ranks in the time since, handling a variety of responsibilities.
"As an Infantryman, I have served in multiple capacities, including rifleman, grenadier, RTO, Rifle Team Leader, Squad Leader, Jungle Instructor, Marksmanship Instructor, Advisor, and Platoon Sergeant," Potter said. "Each position was rewarding in its own way, whether it involved leading young soldiers and watching them grow or teaching students and witnessing their moments of illumination."
Potter has traveled the globe during that time, from conducting courses in Australia to training in Africa. He has dedicated his life to serving others, and as the Chiefs take on the Chargers this weekend, those in attendance can show Potter – a lifelong fan – their appreciation for all that he has done for our country.
"This truly is a once and a lifetime experience for me," Potter said. "I grew up in Kansas City watching the greats like Priest Holmes, Tony Gonzalez, Dante Hall and many others over the years, so being able to be stationed back home and then having this opportunity to do this means the world."
