HOUSTON — Houston Texans fans have yet another reason to love rookie quarterback CJ Stroud. He is sending a military veteran and his son on a once-in-a-lifetime trip to the Super Bowl.
Retired U.S. Marine Craig Mazeska was awarded a Purple Heart and other military honors after deployments to Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and Iraq.
"Coming from a military family has helped shape me into the man I am today – seeing firsthand the sacrifice required," Stroud shared on X.
Stroud teamed up with USAA, an official NFL Salute to Service partner, and Air & Space Forces Association (AFA), to award the deserving veteran with a trip to Las Vegas for the Feb. 11 game. Mazeska and his son will also have a chance to meet Stroud and other NFL stars.
“Beyond football, my family is one of the most influential parts of my life, and I especially appreciate the lessons learned from my loved ones who have served in the military,” Stroud said. “Like some in my family, Marine Corps veteran Sergeant Craig Mazeska selflessly served our country, so I’m honored to join USAA and the Air & Space Forces Association (AFA) to send Sergeant Mazeska and his son to the Super Bowl in Las Vegas, where I look forward to meeting them.”
Mazeska served in the Marine Corps from 1988-1994. He was a combat engineer assigned to 2nd Combat Engineer Battalion Camp LeJeune, North Carolina, and 4th Combat Engineer Battalion, Baltimore, Maryland.
While serving on the first line during the Gulf War, Operation Desert Storm, Mazeska's duties included breaching walls, tank traps, minefields and bunkers.
Along with the Purple Heart, he received a Combat Action Ribbon, Kuwait Liberation Medal and Unit Citation, among other commendations.
After his military career, Craig became a teacher and school counselor. He is now retired and living in Washington D.C. His favorite team is the Baltimore Ravens, which could very well end up in Super Bowl LVIII.
Stroud, the No. 2 pick in the 2023 draft, is a favorite to win the NFL's Offensive Rookie of the Year honor next month in Las Vegas, prior to the Super Bowl.
He was just named Offensive Rookie of the Year by the AP and the Pro Football Writers of America.
