In the wake of COVID-19, several annual and traditional events have been rescheduled, suspended, or canceled all together. One such event is Towson Athletics' annual Military Appreciation Game, typically held during the final home game of the football season. As one of the most prideful and humbling games of the season, Military Appreciation will be truly missed this year.

Nevertheless, Towson Athletics pauses to remember.

Coinciding with Military Appreciation, the Tiger Athletic Fund hosts its annual Wardell Turner Luncheon, honoring the life of a Fallen Tiger and former Towson Football player. Army Sgt. Maj Wardell Turner made the ultimate sacrifice six years ago today, on Nov. 24. 2014 in Kabul, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered in a vehicle-borne improvised explosive device attack. He was 48 years old.

The luncheon is an opportunity for guests to meet Turner's wife Katherine and his family, former teammates, colleagues, Gold Star Mothers, military families and more. Moreover, the Tiger Athletic Fund uses the luncheon as a way to memorialize Turner through the Wardell Turner Scholarship Endowment. The scholarship has been awarded annually since 2016 to a defensive back who is in good academic standing and demonstrates leadership, selfless service and commitment.

The 2020-21 scholarship has been awarded to Jamal Gay.

"Wardell Turner exemplified all of the characteristics that it takes to be successful on the field and in the classroom during his time at Towson," reflects senior associate AD Dan Crowley. "He took these characteristics and became a trusted leader in our United States Army. The Wardell Turner Scholarship Endowment was created by a former Towson teammate and through it we will continue to honor the legacy of Wardell and his wonderful family. We are fortunate and thankful to celebrate the life of our Fallen Tiger, SGM Wardell Turner."  

Towson Athletics is hopeful for the return of both the Military Appreciation game and the Wardell Turner luncheon during the 2021 season. To make a donation to the Wardell Turner Scholarship, please click here (choose "Scholarships" from the "Sport Specific/Restricted Giving" drop down and specify Wardell Turner).