Photo: Steve Proehl / Corbis Unreleased / Getty Images
A retired Navy veteran from Cobleskill, New York is preparing for the experience of a lifetime after receiving tickets to Super Bowl 60, where the New England Patriots will face off against the Seattle Seahawks next Sunday.
Gary Schafer, who served 26 years with the Navy and Navy Reserves, received the surprise gift from New York Giants quarterback Jaxson Dart. The longtime football fan will not only attend the championship game but will also meet Dart and other NFL legends before kickoff.
Schafer's military career included being recalled to active duty during Operation Iraqi Freedom, making this recognition particularly meaningful for the Schoharie County resident.
The Super Bowl, one of America's most-watched sporting events, typically draws viewers from across the nation. This year's matchup features the Patriots and Seahawks competing for the championship title.
While details about how Dart selected Schafer for this honor weren't specified, professional sports teams and players often recognize military veterans through various community outreach programs.