Army football, a bus loaded with all the tailgate provisions you can think of and about 45 members of the Sunshine Chapter can you think of a better way to spend a Saturday? Neither can we. On Saturday, October 16 Sunshine Chapter members boarded a bus to Raymond James Stadium in Tampa to cheer the Black Knights onto victory. And cheer we did! Some of us were a bit hoarse the next day.

Members of Army, Naval and Air Force ROTC took to the field just prior to the official start of the contest and were administered their contracting oath by Major General Dell Dailey of the United States Army Special Operations Command (SOCOM). Along with the contracting cadets, the USF Joint Services Color Guard was on the field to present the nations colors for the National Anthem. As the crowd applauded these young men and women’s dedication to service and country, the crowd was entertained by the parachute demonstration team from SOCOM as they parachuted into the field to hand deliver the game ball and coin to the game officials. Finally, the Florida Army National Guard conducted a flyover at the conclusion of the National Anthem to get the crowd fired up to watch what turned out to be a spectacular game of football.

The game appeared to be dominated by USF during the first half with a Bulls a 28-14 lead. But then the roof collapsed on the USF defense. The Army rallied in the second half and left the USF student population stunned and quiet.

Carlton Jones spearheaded Army's offense, rushing for a career-high 225 yards and five touchdowns. Jones was named Conference USA "Offensive Player of the Week" following that performance.

Scoring an amazing 35 points in the second half the Black Knights outfought, outran and outworked the tired Bulls for a 42-35 win. This was the second consecutive win for the Black Knights a first in seven years.

As the final seconds of the game ticked away the rejoicing from the Army section changed to sincere as the West Point Alma Mater played to the victorious team and devoted alumni and fans.

It was an exciting trip home too; a bit quieter than the trip up, but just as much fun. I can’t think of a better way to spend a Saturday.

Note: Remember if the transmission on the bus doesn’t shift, all you have to do is re-boot!

Photos from the Game!