The Buccaneers are committed to honoring military men and women who have selflessly served this country. Buccaneers defensive tackle Clinton McDonald embodies that commitment through his avid outreach in Tampa's military community.
That is why McDonald is the team's nominee for USAA's 2016 Salute to Service Award, presented to the player that demonstrates an enduring dedication to making a difference in the lives of military families.
With a deep family history of military service, including his grandfather who served in the Korean War; his father, a former Air Force engineer and Vietnam War veteran; his uncle, also a Vietnam veteran; and his brother, currently active duty Air Force, it is no surprise that a passion for supporting military families is at the heart of McDonald's community outreach.
In May, 2016, McDonald served as the honorary guest speaker at the Buccaneers' second annual General H Norman Schwarzkopf Military Family of the Year Awards at One Buccaneer Place. The event honored the families of active duty military members from each branch of service and recognized their integrity, courage, commitment, and service before self.
This past offseason, McDonald also honored wounded warriors at the 2016 Invictus Games, hosted in Orlando. The games were created in 2014 as an international sporting event for wounded, injured and sick servicemen and servicewomen, both active duty and veterans. Prior to the start of the 2016 Games, McDonald visited with members of Team USA, thanking them for their sacrifices and sharing how their stories of resilience and dedication have inspired him. McDonald's outreach has also included participating in events at James A. Haley Veterans' Hospital and visiting troops at MacDill Air Force Base, amongst other efforts.
Finalists for the Salute to Service Award presented by USAA will be announced in January, and the recipient will be recognized at the NFL Honors awards show in Houston on FOX on Saturday, Feb. 4, the night before Super Bowl LI.
