WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR) – Next week marks a monumental milestone, the 80th anniversary of D-Day.
It’s a battle that changed the course of history, helping to liberate Europe from Nazi control.
Known as the greatest generation, World War II veterans are aging.
Many of them need greater assistance, but all of them are determined that the generations that follow never forget. The Best Defense Foundation [BDF] is working to help reach that goal.
A former NFL linebacker, Donnie Edwards, created the foundation in 2018 to honor and celebrate war veterans.
"It just came organically as a simple conversation talking with veterans to where we are now that we can have this huge impact,” said Edwards.
What began as one man helping a few veterans has turned into a life mission for Donnie and his wife Kathryn.
"After playing football for 30 years of my life this is my new team," said Donnie Edwards. "Follow your passion and you'll find your destination where you want to,” he continued.
The foundation runs with the help of hundreds of volunteers.
"They are the salt and backbone of BDF,” said Kathryn Edwards.
Edwards was one of 11 kids and grew up without a father. His grandfather was a big inspiration.
"My grandfather, Maximino Razo, was a Pearl Harbor survivor and a WW II veteran... If you want it, you can get it here in America. We provided opportunity for you,” said Donnie Edwards.
Along with taking veterans back to the battlegrounds where they once fought, Best Defense provides a variety of resources like the Stronghold Transition Program, that helps retired Special Forces operators return to civilian life and connect with the community around them.
Professional athletes pair with Special Forces to help each other grow. "We talk about identity, purpose, to be better fathers, to be better husbands, to be better leaders in the community,” said Donnie Edwards.
This year will be the first co-ed program. "You may be a Sgt. Major over here but the Sgt. Major at home is the wife,” Donnie Edwards added. "When the military personnel come home, the transition has to start there," said Kathryn Edwards.
The Edwards’ goal is to educate future generations about the heroism and sacrifices of these veterans and continue their legacy for generations to come.
"I’m so glad that I have this platform to give back to the men and women who served this country,” said Donnie Edwards.
To learn more, you can visit the Best Defense Foundation’s website at www.bdf.org.