CLEVELAND — Prior to the Cleveland Browns' game on Sunday, the team as well as CrossCountry Mortgage partnered to surprise an Ohio Veteran.
The Browns and CrossCountry Mortgage surprised Veteran Bobby Colleran from North Ridgeville with $25,000 to help with housing costs ahead of the annual Salute to Service Game.
“The American dream of homeownership wouldn’t be possible without the selfless service of our Military,” said Laura Soave, chief brand officer, CCM. “Support for the Military community is part of our always-on CCM Cares efforts, and we are honored to participate in events that honor the brave individuals who protect our nation and our rights year-round."
Colleran served in the Marine Corps and also was deployed to Afghanistan. The inspiration for Colleran to serve came from his grandfather who raised him and was also a Veteran.
"I am really having a hard time talking right now. It kind of is like a speechless moment," said Colleran. "It feels incredible. It is not like anything I have ever felt before."
During Sunday's game, The Browns honored many members of the military, including veterans, active-duty service members and their families.
According to a media release from the Browns, "Salute to Service is a year-round effort to honor, empower, and connect the nation’s service members, veterans and their families. It is grounded in deep partnership with non-profits and organizations focused on the military community in the United States and across the world. The NFL extends its appreciation of the military community through special moments of recognition at games and events, as well as visits to military bases both domestically and internationally throughout the year."
This year, the Cleveland Browns nominated Wyatt Teller for the Salute to Service Award, which is given to a member of the NFL that demonstrates ""an exemplary commitment to honoring and supporting the military community."
EDITOR'S NOTE: The video above previously aired on 3News on Oct. 9, 2022.