Dear Selection Committee,
Back in August, just before the NFL faced a wave of scandals concerning players and their personal conduct, the Pro Football Hall of Fame updated its admission criteria to include a new category—contributors. This category highlights individuals who have made significant impacts on professional football outside of playing or coaching, as outlined on their official website.
There are plenty of worthy candidates for this inaugural class. One could easily argue for figures like Jim Thompson, the influential owner of the Philadelphia Eagles during their Super Bowl triumphs, or perhaps even the iconic commentator Sam Johnson, who helped launch Monday Night Football in the 1970s. However, I propose a different name—someone who embodies courage and sacrifice in a way that resonates deeply in today’s challenging environment: Maurice “Footsie” Britt. Britt was a rookie with the Detroit Lions who left the league to serve in the U.S. Army at the onset of World War II, ultimately becoming one of the war’s most decorated soldiers.
As a football enthusiast and a veteran myself, I’m often astounded by how few people are aware of Britt’s legacy and how infrequently the NFL acknowledges him. When the U.S. entered the war, many pro football players enlisted, but few had a narrative as compelling as Britt’s. His story not only elevated the league’s reputation during a turbulent time but also represented the valor of athletes who served their country.
Britt joined the Army infantry and quickly found himself among the first American forces battling the Germans in North Africa. He made history by being the first American soldier to receive every top military honor for bravery. Unfortunately, he was severely injured in combat, losing his right arm and with it, his professional sports aspirations. After returning from the war in 1944, he built a family, pursued business endeavors, and eventually entered politics before passing in 1995.
Advocating for Britt’s inclusion in the Hall of Fame may seem like a long shot. In fact, while researching this piece, several committee members discouraged me from even suggesting his nomination. One committee member remarked, “I see no basis for considering Britt as a contributor to pro football.” This highlights a narrow interpretation of what contributions can be recognized, likely reflecting the Hall’s intent to reward financial benefactors rather than true heroes.
Yet, the Hall’s criteria aren’t as narrowly defined on their website, leaving room for the NFL to honor a significant figure from its past. At a time when the league is striving to overcome its current controversies, acknowledging a forgotten hero like Britt could be a powerful statement.
The NFL during Britt’s era was vastly different. Baseball was the reigning sport, and the Super Bowl was still decades away. Britt, a standout at the University of Arkansas, played in 1941 after earning his degree and a reserve commission in the Army. With offers from multiple NFL teams, he chose to serve his country instead.
While Britt was fighting in Europe, the NFL continued its operations. In fact, during the 1943 season, he was engaged in intense combat while the league crowned champions. The remarkable stories of his bravery include instances like leading his men during an assault in Italy, where he displayed extraordinary valor under fire, actions that earned him several medals, including the Medal of Honor.
After the war, Britt transitioned to various careers and even ventured into politics, becoming lieutenant governor of Arkansas in the 1960s. Despite his numerous accolades, there remains a noticeable lack of recognition from the NFL and his former team. I’ve reached out to the Lions and the Hall of Fame, but responses have been lackluster at best, with many unaware of his legacy.
While figures like Pat Tillman, who left the NFL to serve after September 11, and Rocky Bleier, who fought in Vietnam, are often remembered, Britt’s contributions should also be celebrated. He represents the ideal of athletes as citizens and leaders who prioritize their nation’s needs over personal gain.
The Pro Football Hall of Fame has been selective about admitting veterans, but countless deserving individuals have made significant contributions off the field. It’s time to recognize Maurice Britt—not only for his individual accomplishments but as a symbol of the selflessness that characterizes true heroes.
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In summary, the NFL has a unique opportunity to honor a true hero from its past. By recognizing Maurice Britt, the league can reflect on the values of courage, sacrifice, and leadership that extend beyond the football field.