On March 16, 2023, First Sergeant Bobby Burns, affectionately known as “Pop,” was honored by the Nashville Predators during their Military Salute Week for his almost forty years of service to the United States. He served in the U.S. Naval Reserves and in the U.S. Army in the 1950s, and is a Korea Conflict veteran. He then served 36 years in the Tennessee Army National Guard. In his years of service, he received a total of 31 military ribbons and commendations.
As part of the honor, Mr. Burns got to meet the Predators Team Captain, Roman Josi, who was fascinated by the 92-year-old hero. Bobby couldn’t quit smiling! He and three family members and friends were treated to dinner at the Patron Club at the Bridgestone, and he received an autographed military-style Predators jersey and ball cap. They were then seated in the lower level of the arena in prime viewing seats.
Pop was totally unaware that his military story was going to be shown on the Jumbotron. He thought he was there representing the Collinwood American Legion and the Honor Guard, who have presented the colors at several Preds games. He wasn’t aware that his entire family was in the audience celebrating him along with 17,000 Preds fans!
When his face appeared on the big screen, it lit up in surprise and joy at being honored. He waved to the crowd and shed a few tears, then enjoyed a family reunion on top of everything else!
Thank you, “Pop” Bobby Burns, for your dedication to this country. Keep smiling!—Submitted by Mrs. Katy Wright
