In honor of the NFL's Salute to Service initiative, it is befitting that a distinguished veteran of the United States Marine Corps will light the Al Davis Memorial Torch prior to kickoff of Sunday's Las Vegas Raiders-Denver Broncos game.
Merrel Franklin Adams served bravely as an A-4 Skyhawk pilot during the Vietnam War, where he was shot down in South Vietnam. Surrounded by enemy fire, he was successfully rescued and earned a Purple Heart for his injuries. His continued dedication to service was recognized through numerous accolades, including the Distinguished Flying Cross, the Bronze Star Medal and the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal, each reflecting his courage and commitment to his fellow Marines and the ideals of freedom and duty.
Adams is the grandfather of Raiderette Madisyn, who is in her first season as a member of Football's Fabulous Females. This Sunday's game serves as a deeply personal tribute to Madisyn.
"It is such an honor to represent him and all veterans," Madisyn shared, emphasizing her pride in her grandfather's legacy.
Adams is the latest of a distinguished list that have been bestowed the honor, beginning with the late John Madden, who was the first to light the torch on October 18, 2011. The First Lady of Raider Nation, Mrs. Carol Davis, was the first to light the Al Davis Memorial Torch honoring her late husband in Las Vegas prior to the Raiders' inaugural contest at Allegiant Stadium on September 21, 2020.
Since the tradition began in 2011 in Oakland, many Raiders Alumni, celebrities and fans have had the privilege to light the Torch before each home game. The Al Davis Memorial Torch is a tribute to Mr. Davis' legacy as the Raiders' longtime owner, Pro Football Hall of Fame inductee, AFL Coach of the Year, AFL Commissioner, and the architect of the Raiders' Commitment to Excellence in recognition of Mr. Davis' enduring vision that "the fire that burns the brightest in the Raiders' organization is the will to win."
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