Ravens Head Coach John Harbaugh is known for his commitment to honoring members of the military, and the NFL is recognizing him for that involvement.
The league announced Sunday that Harbaugh is a finalist for its Salute to Service Award, presented by USAA. The other finalist is Minnesota Vikings defensive end Jared Allen.The winner will be announced during Saturday's NFL Honors presentation in New York City.
"The Salute to Service Award provides a unique opportunity to recognize individuals who are going above and beyond to support military and their families," said Don Clark, assistant vice president of media and sponsorship marketing at USAA.
During Harbaugh's six seasons in Baltimore, he has been active in supporting the military. Wounded Warriors are often guests during practice and Harbaugh allows unique experiences for the troops when they visit the Under Armour Performance Center.
Earlier this year, Harbaugh invited a member of the Army for a surprise homecoming by having the solider and his family visit practice. Lt. Russ Cote posed as a Ravens staffer during practice, and then surprised his wife and two sons in the team huddle once it was over.
Harbaugh also introduced Military Appreciation Day for an annual training camp practice at M&T Bank Stadium and also participated in the NFL's United Service Organization's tour of the Middle East in 2009. Â
The NFL Honors show will air on FOX beginning at 8 p.m. Saturday.Â
