Sep 19, 2013
The NFL’s Troy Polamalu will cut his legendary mane on Veterans Day as part of “The VFW Mane Event.” From now to November 11, the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) and Polamalu will challenge patriotic and caring citizens of our country to make a tangible difference in the lives of veterans by committing to also cut their hair, creating fundraiser pages, making monetary donations or just lending their voice to support life-changing VFW programs. The effort is part of the VFW’s annual United for Veterans initiative to bring awareness to VFW programs and services that work to alleviate veterans’ struggles.
"I understand the issues that veterans, and their families, face while serving our country and I am honored to join the Veterans of Foreign Wars Mane Event, encouraging the nation to unite for veterans for a second year,” said Polamalu. “By getting my hair cut on Veterans Day, I am showing my commitment to the men and women who served our country… the real heroes."
Strong safety of the Pittsburgh Steelers and a USC graduate, Polamalu has an exceptional record: he's a 6-time Pro Bowl Selection, 4-time NFL All-Pro, 2010 AP Defensive Player of the Year, 2-time Super Bowl Champion, 2010 NFL Alumni Player of the Year and stands out for having the #1 selling jersey in the country. Recently named one of the most likeable players in the NFL by Forbes Magazine, Polamalu is a longtime supporter of our nation’s veterans. This campaign marks the second consecutive Veterans Day program aligning the non-profit and Polamalu, who became a VFW brand ambassador in 2012. On Veterans Day, Troy will invite veterans from different branches of our military to participate in The VFW Mane Event haircutting ceremony.
"The need to support America’s veterans has never been more critical than right now. The VFW Mane Event movement gives the nation a tangible way to stand for veterans, ensuring their needs don’t fall through the cracks," said John Hamilton, VFW Adjutant General.
The VFW Mane Event empowers the American public to join with Polamalu and thousands of other Americans to ensure veterans’ needs are met. Additionally, VFW’s celebrity and professional athlete supporters will lend their voices and influence to rally communities in support of veterans. Funds raised will help veterans secure their VA healthcare, compensation and benefits, and provide them with access to education, employment, housing and emergency financial resources.
Supporters are encouraged to make a donation to Polamalu’s fundraising page, follow the VFW (@vfwhq) and Polamalu (@tpolamalu) on Twitter, and use social media to spread the word to family and friends (#VFWMANEEVENT hashtag).
For more information on the VFW Mane Event, please visit www.vfwmaneevent.org.