Norwich University featured in College Football Hall of Fame exhibit

The maroon and gold of the Norwich University Cadets is now part of the College Football Hall of Fame’s new exhibit entitled “From the Gridiron to the Battlefield.” This exhibit is featured as part of the hall of fame’s 10th anniversary upgrades and the Norwich artifacts are displayed alongside those from the four other senior military colleges which play football, five U.S. service academies, and three U.S. maritime academies.

“To be included as part of the College Football Hall of Fame’s exhibit ‘From the Gridiron to the Battlefield’ is a great honor for Norwich University, our football program, and the number of Cadets that have gone on to serve with distinction in our nation’s various military branches,” said Norwich University President LtGen John J. Broadmeadow ’83, USMC (Ret).

Housed in the main display case alongside the other senior military colleges is a Norwich Cadets helmet. The school, which is the oldest private senior military college in the nation and birthplace of the Reserve Officer’s Training Corps, was founded in 1819 and began competing on the gridiron just 24 years after the first-ever collegiate football game took place at Rutgers University. “Since 1893, the Norwich University football program has taken great pride in preparing future leaders for our nation’s military,” said Cadets Head Football Coach Bill Russell. “Our inclusion in the exhibit ‘From the Gridiron to the Battlefield’ is a fantastic way to honor that legacy and attract future Norwich Cadets as we continue the mission.”

The exhibit includes a wealth of information detailing service rivalries, school histories, and memorable moments from the field, while also highlighting the 400-plus College Football Hall of Fame inductees who have served the nation. Included in that number are the 13 who gave their lives in service to the nation.

“This year’s special exhibit at the College Football Hall of Fame powerfully showcases the unwavering dedication and resilience of the numerous individuals who epitomize the spirit of Norwich University,” said Athletic Director Ed Hockenbury. “These young men willingly served their country after developing their skills while wearing the maroon and gold. The wonderful exhibit distinctly sets each of these universities apart and shines a light on the legacy of the individuals who truly have gone from the gridiron to the battlefield.”