At each home game during the 2016 season, the Buffalo Bills will honor a military member during the games' third quarter break presented by BENRUS. Honored during Buffalo's Week 6 game at New Era Field on Sunday, Oct. 16, was First Sergeant Aaron Smith of the United States Army.
First Sergeant Aaron Smith, a native of Bath, N.Y., served for over 20 years in the Infantry. Joining the service in April of 1996, he took on several leadership positions during his tenure such as, Mortar Squad Leader, Section Leader, Drill Sergeant, Platoon Sergeant, and Company First Sergeant.
His military expertise proved invaluable throughout his three deployments. First Sergeant Smith served twice in Operation Enduring Freedom and in Operation Iraqi Freedom, as well as supported missions Kosovo and Macedonia. When he retired, he was an Operations Sergeant in the 193rd Infantry Brigade in Fort Jackson, S.C.
Honored for his commendable career on-field in front his loved ones, and thousands of proud Bills fans, First Sergeant Smith could not have been happier.
"It was an unbelievable experience," said First Sergeant Smith. "I've been a Season Ticket Member forever (24 years), and I love my seats and coming to the games, but this totally took it to another level. When I was asked to do this, it was really good because I wanted to bring my son. He's eight (years old) and has never been to a game at New Era Field. He was definitely excited and it was…a special moment for me to have him there for his first game and (in) recognition for my retirement."
