Following the tragedy of September 11, 2001, the Cleveland Browns created the Hats Off to Our Heroes program to recognize and salute the accomplishments and services of those in the local community.
During the October 25th game vs. Green Bay, the Browns willproudly honor the following members of the United States Army:
1LT Andre Ballard
During his 8 years of active duty, 1LT. Ballard has had the honor of receiving such awards as an Army Commendation Medal, an Army Achievement Medal, a Humanitarian Service Medal, and a Multinational Force & Observers Medal. 1LT Ballard is described as not only an intelligent officer and an outstanding leader, but also as a committed family man. First Lieutenant Ballard and his wife Corrine have taken charge of a family readiness program to help provide information and services to other military families.
1LT Matthew Martling
1LT Martling has shown his dedication to our country through his 14 years of service. Hailing from Columbus and an Otterbein graduate, 1LT Martling is described as a compassionate, yet funny man. His love of the military and commitment to his country is evident through his time in the Marine Corps during Operation Desert Storm, his service in the Ohio Army National Guard, as well as his recent year long deployment to Iraq.
SGT Luis W. Torres
SGT Torres has proudly served his country for 10 years. In this time, he has earned such awards as the Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, and Good Conduct Medal. SGT Torres is described as a very dedicated service member, one who always displays pride and sets a good example for others to follow; a true leader both on and off duty.
SGT Justin Nalley
SGT Justin Nalley is described as a kind, unique solider, one who enjoys cigars, his two cats, and hunting. Throughout his 13+ years of service to our country, SGT Nalley has received such awards as an Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, Indiana Commendation Medal, Certificate of Achievement, and Certificate of Appreciation. In addition to these accomplishments, SGT Nalley was a lead runner on over 200 convoy escort missions during his service in Iraq and Kuwait.
SSG Brian Stewart
During his 18 years of service to our country, SSG Stewart has served in the Marine Corps, US Army, US Army Reserves and the Ohio Army National Guard. While he has served multiple overseas deployments, he is currently serving as Training NCO for Company G 237th BSB. Throughout his many years of duty, SSG Stewart has been honored with an abundance of awards, some of which being: a Purple Heart, Army Commendation Medal with Combat V Device, National Defense Medal, Global War on Terrorism Medal, Humanitarian Service Medal and so on.
1SG Jon Stingel
1SG Stingel, a graduate of Kent State University, has served his country and community for 22 years. Described as a wonderful husband and father, 1SG Stingel is a proud NCO in the US Army; 1SG Stingel has also been deployed to Louisiana for Hurricane Relief and the 101st Airborne Division Air Assault during Desert Storm. 1SG Stingel has received numerous medals throughout his military career, one being the Bronze Star Medal for exceptional service during Operation Iraqi Freedom. 1SG Stingel currently serves in the Ohio Army National Guard.
