West Point unveils Army-Navy game uniforms honoring WWII paratroopers

Published Dec. 9, 2016 12:45 p.m. ET

share

facebookxredditlink

Brett Smiley

When the Army Black Knights (6-5) meet the Navy Midshipmen (9-3) for their annual Army–Navy Game on Saturday at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, the Black Knights will be suited up in some impressive uniforms that pay homage to the World War II-era 82nd Airborne Division.

Army's website about the paratroopers and the inspiration for the uniform reads:

"Highly trained and highly disciplined, the soldiers of the 82nd Airborne were asked to spearhead the invasions of Italy, Normandy, and Holland. With little to no reinforcements or relief in the most adverse conditions, their physical and mental toughness was pushed to the limits. Their unwavering brotherhood and intense dedication to success, ultimately led to mission accomplishment."

The uniforms also display "AA" patches standing for "All American" on the side like the jump suits. That nickname and symbol was borne from the division's membership with soldiers from all 48 states (Alaska and Hawaii gained statehood in 1959).

Army will look to snap Navy's 14-game game winning streak dating to 2001. Kickoff is at 3 p.m. on Saturday on CBS.

share