• Men’s basketball honors true heroes through Fort Hood partnership

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    When the Baylor men’s basketball team spent a weekend training at Fort Hood before the 2012-13 season, the soldiers and families they met there left a lasting impression. The weekend served as a major bonding experience for the Bears, who took part in hand-to-hand combat training and sharpshooting exercises, then coached soldiers on Fort Hood basketball teams.

    Now, a little over a year later, the Bears are returning the favor to give many of those families a memorable moment of their own.

    At every conference game this season, Baylor has recognized soldiers from Fort Hood’s 4th Sustainment Brigade. The individuals honored have all been selected by their superiors to attend a Baylor men’s basketball game as a guest of the Bears, with the added bonus of being recognized by the crowd. Many of the soldiers have the types of harrowing stories that can only come from military service, and the chance to attend a basketball game with their family and receive a standing ovation from several thousand people is a welcome and meaningful change.

    Sgt. Cynthia Landin and her three children, ages 4-9, were among those chosen for the honor. Landin says the experience — which featured a behind-the-scenes tour, the chance to meet players and coaches, free courtside seats, goodies for the kids, and an ovation from the crowd as they were recognized on the court — was “awesome… The kids were so excited. It’s refreshing to see the community still cares about the Army.”

    For head coach Scott Drew and the Bears, it’s an opportunity demonstrate that care in a way that will leave lasting memories.

    “Baylor men’s basketball is honored to build on our partnership with Ft. Hood,” Drew says. “We have so much respect and appreciation for the men and women that serve our country, and it is our sincere privilege to give back to those that give so much for us.”

    Sic ’em, Baylor basketball and Fort Hood soldiers!

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