Rehearsals, briefings and BBQs. These events have kept me busy over the last couple of days. The Soldier-Heroes have rehearsed on site at the Alamo Dome what we are going to do on gameday during the pregame festivities. As with any military operation, rehearsals have been crucial to ensuring everyone is aware of what we are going to do, where we are supposed to stand, and how we are going to synchronize all of the 98 Soldier-Heroes in the pregame introductions and activities. Personally, my favorite portion of the pregame tasks is the introduction portion where my player, Shakim, and I will get to dance and fool around at midfield before taking our spot on the field for the national anthem. He and I are spending some of our personal time together rehearsing what is sure to be an entertaining introduction at midfield especially since we both consider ourselves to be "hams."

Last evening, during a BBQ, I had the opportunity to meet Shakim's family to include his mother, father, uncle, older sister and cousin. It took only a few seconds for me to see where he Shakim gets his character and humor from. During dinner, we all shared a great time by constantly joking around and enjoyed the flavors of BBQ chicken, brisket and creamed corn. The hours just seemed to fly by and I thoroughly enjoyed feeling a part of their family.

Shakim has a bright future ahead of him. Despite having just recently met him, I have been able to get to know him quite well over the last couple of days. I am very excited for him. He is 17 years old standing 6'2" and weighing 195lbs. He is rated as the top receiver in the state of New Jersey. Not only is he one of the top receivers in the country but he is also rated as one of the top recruits over all football positions. Even prior to playing his senior season, he had committed to play football next year at Boston College where he will play right away. He plans to study business management there. His maturity, personality and work ethic will, no doubt, lead him to excellence on both the football field and in the classroom.

This evening we have a formal awards dinner which will lead up to tomorrow's highly anticipated game between the East team and the West team. Check out the 10th Annual Army All-American Bowl game live on NBC, Saturday, January 9, 2010 at 1:00pm eastern. The future stars of college football and even the NFL will be on display. Oh and don't forget to cheer on Shakim and the East team since a large friendly rivalry between the players and Soldier-Heroes from each team has been building all week. Go East Team!