BUD GRANT, NFL LEGEND
In Bud Grant's words, "Stars and heroes are different. Stars entertain us; heroes define us. In the morning light, stars fade away. Heroes never do." Despite being the most famous sports figure in Minnesota for decades, Bud always made a point to distance himself from the hero category. Although he had served in the United States Navy, he reserved hero status for other servicemembers, including those who sacrificed their lives in duty. Thinking about the courage and conviction of some of his contemporaries brought Bud to tears, even more than a half century later. Bud's sincere respect of service members and the United States prompted him to create the "Viking Formation" in which the team stood at full attention during the National Anthem. Roughly 50 years after the "Viking Formation" appeared on the cover of the 1974 Vikings Press Guide, Vikings Legends who played for Bud, including National Guard veteran Carl Eller, lined up in the formation as Minnesota opened its 2023 regular season. Although Bud passed away six months earlier in March, his genuine appreciation for service members continues through the players he coached and fans he impacted. Bud had a long history of honoring, empowering and connecting with active military members and veterans, including through his support for Minnesota Veterans Outdoors. The organization provides memorable hunting and fishing opportunities for disabled veterans. The veterans can share their experiences as they receive outdoor recreational therapy outlets.