Afghanistan war veteran tells story of how Drew Brees brought him hope

Afghanistan war veteran Jackson Smith, who lives in New Orleans, recently told a touching story in the Washington Post about Drew Brees’ influence on his life.

Jackson headed into battle, in the heart of the Afghanistan War, in 2010 -- the same time the Saints made their Super Bowl run. He said that hearing the Saints had won in the midst of fighting the war was extremely uplifting.

Knowing this, one of Jackson’s friends back home went through great lengths to give his pal a special surprise. Jackson’s friend, Brian, printed a cardboard cutout of Jackson in uniform. On Mardi Gras, Brian managed to find Drew Brees and talk his way past NFL personnel to snap a photo of Jackson’s cutout with the NFL star.

“I can say without an ounce of shame: When I saw that picture, I cried my eyes out. I felt that Brian had pulled off the greatest act of friendship in the history of Mardi Gras. At a time in my life when I knew little beyond doubt and exhaustion, his gesture brought me through.”

Years later, Jackson had another incredible encounter with Brees that you can read about in the full emotional story over at WaPo.

Jackson closes by thanking Brees.

“His impact on the city of New Orleans has been discussed in many forums, but it cannot be exaggerated. He has embraced his role as a symbol of hope, and he carries that burden every day with the grace and selflessness that have made him my city’s favorite son.”

Although, truly, Jackson is probably the one we should all be thanking.