“People watch the game of football and believe it must be tough to get out there and put your body on the line every play," he said. "I chose to be a part of this tour because our troops are the real men and women putting their lives on the line for our entire country. These brave Americans allow us to sleep comfortably every night and being a part of this tour is the only way that I can begin to repay them. I have been on many football teams throughout my life but I am about to experience a few days with the ultimate team and at the same time celebrate the Fourth of July with the men and women who keep us free. It gets no better than this!”

And for Polian, the upcoming holiday takes on a little more meaning.

"I am honored to be part of this great trip," he said. "I can't imagine a better place to be on July 4th than with our troops overseas."