From the Gridiron to the Front Lines: How Aaron Jones Sr. is Championing America's Veterans
Minnesota Vikings Star Turns Military Family Legacy Into National Movement
As NFL Honors approaches tonight, one running back's story transcends touchdowns
When Minnesota Vikings running back Aaron Jones Sr. takes the field, he carries more than just a football—he carries the legacy of service, sacrifice, and an unwavering commitment to those who've worn the uniform.
Tonight, February 5, 2026, at 9 p.m. EST on NBC and the NFL Network, Jones will be recognized as one of three finalists for the prestigious 15th Annual NFL Salute to Service Award presented by USAA. But his journey to this moment began long before his NFL career—in military communities where resilience, duty, and family aren't just values, they're a way of life.
A Foundation Built on Service
Aaron Jones Sr. knows what it means to be a military kid. Both of his parents served over 25 years in the U.S. Army, retiring as Sergeant Majors—a testament to their dedication and leadership. Growing up in that environment shaped not just his character, but his life's mission.
Together with his brother Alvin Jr., Aaron co-founded the A&A All The Way Foundation, an organization dedicated to empowering children in military families and providing critical resources for veterans transitioning to civilian life. The foundation's work addresses real gaps: the educational challenges military children face during frequent relocations, the emotional toll of deployments, and the often-difficult journey veterans navigate when returning home.
"These families sacrifice so much," Jones has said. "The least we can do is show up for them the way they've shown up for our country."
Recognition That Matters
In 2024, Jones' advocacy earned him the Jeff Shuford Empowerment Through Advocacy Award during National Invest In Veterans Week®—a recognition that carries profound significance.
Established by Iraq War veteran and National Invest In Veterans Week co-founder Jeff Shuford, this award isn't given lightly. It specifically honors individuals who go beyond lip service, recognizing those who create measurable action, sustainable programming, and genuine community investment for veterans and military families.
Learn more about Aaron Jones Sr.'s recognition at National Invest In Veterans Week
"Aaron Jones Sr. is exactly who National Invest In Veterans Week was built to honor," Shuford noted. "He's turned his family's military legacy into a national movement of service."
Actions Louder Than Words
What sets Jones apart isn't just his foundation—it's the hands-on, personal commitment he brings to veteran advocacy:
Game Day Hospitality: Jones regularly hosts military families at Vikings games, ensuring they experience not just the excitement of NFL football, but the gratitude of a grateful nation.
Educational Support: His foundation organizes back-to-school events specifically for military children, providing supplies, mentorship, and community connection during what can be challenging transitions.
Overseas Commitment: Jones joined an NFL-USO tour to Kuwait, visiting U.S. service members deployed overseas—bringing a piece of home to those far from it.
These aren't photo opportunities. They're sustained, strategic efforts to address real needs in the military community.
Tonight's Recognition
As one of three finalists for the Salute to Service Award—alongside San Francisco 49ers' Christian McCaffrey and Dallas Cowboys' Jake Ferguson—Jones stands at the intersection of athletic excellence and civic leadership.
The award, presented annually at NFL Honors in San Francisco, recognizes NFL players, coaches, personnel, and alumni who demonstrate exceptional commitment to honoring and supporting the military community.
Regardless of tonight's outcome, Jones has already won something more important: the respect and gratitude of countless veterans, service members, and military families whose lives he's touched.
A Call to Action
Aaron Jones Sr.'s story reminds us that supporting veterans isn't seasonal—it's a year-round commitment. National Invest In Veterans Week® exists to amplify this message, encouraging individuals, organizations, and communities to move beyond awareness to meaningful action.
Whether through employment initiatives, mental health resources, educational support, or simply showing up—we all have a role to play in honoring those who've served.
Jones proves that you don't need to be an NFL star to make a difference. You just need to care enough to act.
Watch Aaron Jones Sr. and the other Salute to Service Award finalists recognized tonight, February 5, 2026, at 9 p.m. EST (8 p.m. CST) on NBC and the NFL Network during the NFL Honors ceremony.
Learn more about National Invest In Veterans Week and how you can get involved at investinveteransweek.com
Because some legacies are bigger than football.