Friday, Aug. 12, the Roosevelt- Aurora American Legion Post 84 received a special guest at its monthly breakfast. Donnell Woolford, retired National Football League (NFL) football cornerback for the Chicago Bears joined American Legion members, including State representative Stephanie Kifowit at the Roosevelt-Aurora Post 84 American Legion, 1 East Benton Street, Aurora.
Woolford played in 10 NFL seasons for the Chicago Bears, 1989 to 1997, Pittsburgh Steelers, 1997 to 1998, Carolina Panthers, 1998-1999. Even after his retirement, he continued to coach high school football in his hometown of Fayetteville, N. C..
Woolford’s father proudly served in the United States military. In his time in the 82nd Airborne Division he was stationed in Germany, Fort Ord in California, and Fort Dix in New Jersey.
“It was truly a delight to see how surprised so many American Legion veterans were when they saw who showed up,” said Commander Mike Eckburg on the visit by Donnell Woolford . “It was a pleasure hearing from Mr. Woolford, his time in the NFL, and his time growing up on base while his father was stationed in Germany.”
Laughs, and several shared stories were told over freshly-brewed coffee and many bagels.
Woolford said, “Veteran organizations such the American Legion do a great job of creating a community for veterans of all branches who can be with others with similar experiences. It provides an abundance of great resources and connections to those who need it,”. Woolford said. “It was a great privilege to be among so many service members.”
—Aurora American Legion Post 84