Annual First and Ten Tailgate honors veterans ahead of Bears vs. Packers

Chicago Bears fans flocked to a tailgate event on the Southwest Side to honor veterans ahead of the Bears vs. Packers game on Sunday. While Coach Mike Ditka and his family were undoubtedly in the hearts of the attendees, the spotlight was also on veterans. The First and Ten Tailgate (FATT) took place near 35th Street and Damen Avenue, where fans paid tribute to Ditka's kindness towards deserving members of the Chicago community.

Louis Hansen, a Bears fan at the tailgate, recalled Ditka's generosity and expressed sadness at his passing, emphasizing Ditka's importance as a legend to the city. Bill Flores, who grew up in a veteran family, organized the event near the William McKinley American Legion Post 231. Flores helped organize FATT, providing free meals for veterans while non-veterans made donations to support the post.

Navy veteran Alissa Reynolds shared her appreciation for the event, noting that it benefits both veterans and their families by offering a chance to share war stories and enjoy each other's company, regardless of branch or age. This annual fundraiser has been organized by a handful of organizations for six years, with Flores lending a hand during Bears home games as well.

Fans can find him in the South lot, tailgating with fellow veterans, as he carries the Operation Warrior Wishes flag to help identify him as a veteran supporter.