I've wanted to do this for years as it is reasonably close to home, but finally got around to it. A few things really stood out.

-No one can do the pre-game hype video on the jumbotron that Army can do. Football plays interspersed with soldiers shooting stuff. Explosions, Attack helicopters. Big time football hits. My boys couldn't look away.

-Seeing the traditional paratroopers bringing the ball into the stadium was way cooler than I expected. They jump from a helicopter that is flying low enough you see them actually make the jump. Seeing a body in free fall with no parachute is pretty thrilling.

-The cadets are everywhere and just make the atmosphere special. Especially in the world we live in today it's inspiring to see all these young people sacrificing for a higher purpose.

-The stadium had so many alums returning for reunions. Just a really inspiring group of people. We had a chance to talk to several and hear them reflect on their experiences at the academy. These conversations were the best part of the day.

-It's easy to forget that Army was once a football powerhouse. There are Heisman and National championship banners on prominent display in the stadium.

-The campus is beautiful, especially in the fall. The history is rich and you can feel the greatness of the men and women past and present who have passed through the school.

-I have a son who is not a huge football fan. He gave the entire experience rave reviews. I think all of my kids recognized that this was not just any school or any football game.

-There are constant reminders that football is not the primary purpose of anyone in the stadium. There were messages that had been recorded specifically for that game by soldiers all over the world that they would frequently play during the breaks.

-Army looks pretty good this year. They destroyed Rice in what was expected to be a much closer game. Despite the blowout, there was a guy a few rows back who would yell "Throw the ball" in great frustration when Army was on offense. I think he's following the wrong team.

All in all it was a 10/10 experience. I've been reflecting on it a lot the last few days. There was an optimism and unity of purpose in the air that is in short supply in our divided America these days. It was very refreshing. If you're a fan of college football or just a fan of America I highly recommend adding this to your bucket list.