Packers linebacker Sam Barrington received the 2015 community service award at the annual Green Bay Area Chamber of Commerce "Welcome Back" luncheon on Wednesday at the Lambeau Field Atrium.
The event, as usual, also featured some curious choices of attire. Quarterback Aaron Rodgers wore a full U.S. Navy Blue Angels pilot suit, complete with helmet and mask, while fullback John Kuhn also sported a military fighter pilot's outfit.
Barrington's community involvement in his first few years as a pro has included work with the NFL's Play 60 program as well as local Salvation Army, Big Brothers Big Sisters, and PALS chapters. In accepting the award, Barrington said seeing teammates in past years receive it prompted him to think about efforts he could make.
At Wednesday's "Welcome Back" luncheon, Packers QB Aaron Rodgers wore a full U.S. Navy Blue Angels pilot suit, while FB John Kuhn also sported a fighter pilot's outfit. Photos by Ryan Hartwig and Jenna Smoot, Packers.com.
"I said I wanted to do more, not because I wanted the award but because the community needed it," he said. "I hope someone out there is thinking the same thing."
Head Coach Mike McCarthy also addressed the crowd, following Barrington to the podium.
"I just want to say how proud we all are of our players and the way they give back to the community -- how they accept the responsibility of giving back to others," McCarthy said.
"Congratulations Sam. That's a tough award to win on this football team. Great job."
