The Drum Awards for Marketing - Extended Deadline

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By Kyle O'Brien | Creative Works Editor

December 6, 2016 | 2 min read

The 82nd Airborne Division of the US Army were at the front lines of some of the heaviest fighting in World War II. The paratroopers were the first to hit the ground in the invasions of Normandy, Holland and Italy.

To pay tribute to these soldiers, Nike and Army have teamed up on uniforms that the Black Knights will wear during the Army v Navy football game this Saturday in Baltimore. The uniforms are black and muted gray, donned with patches that echo those who jumped and fought during some of the most epic battles of the war. They feature a division patch, oversized 48-star American flag patch, player name tapes and an improvised camo base layer. Since fighters in the 82nd came from all 48 states (at the time), they were considered “All American” and the uniforms have their iconic “AA” shoulder patch.

“We honor the past by re-telling stories of valor, courage, and sacrifice. Inspired, humbled, and motivated by the soldiers that came before us, we don their patches, adopt their mottos, and hold their deeds close to our hearts,” said a statement on the dedicated website for the uniforms.

The helmet design also reflects the past, with a netting graphic that mirrors the netting from the soldiers’ helmets, and an array of authentic era-specific tactical symbols.

The website also honors those from West Point who served in the 82nd, known as the “Long Gray Line.”

In addition, a YouTube video helps tell the story behind the uniforms.

The #25 ranked Navy Midshipmen may be favored to win, but the Black Knights will have the strength of past warriors to guide them this game, which may help them break a 14-year losing streak to Navy.

Creative Nike

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