About 40 U.S. Marines, wounded in Iraq and Afghanistan, are expected to arrive at Tampa International Airport this afternoon to take part in a plethora of pre-Super Bowl events and ultimately attend the game itself.
The veterans, who make up the Marine Corps' Wounded Warrior Regiment, come from far-flung areas of the country such as Boston, Pittsburgh, Nashville, Chicago and California. Some are recuperating in Tampa. Some are recovering from gunshot wounds and explosions.
The out-of-towners are expected to arrive at 4:30 p.m. at the airport's Concourse E.
They will take part in a variety of pre-game activities, including a welcoming reception at the airport. That will be followed by a pig roast this evening.
The itinerary includes watching a celebrity flag football game, visits to Busch Gardens and the NFL Experience next to Raymond James Stadium, and attendance at Super Bowl XLIII on Sunday.
Since 2006, the NFL's Cleveland Browns have donated some of their allotment of tickets to injured marines.
The Wounded Warrior Regiment was established in April 2007. Its mission is to help wounded, injured and ill Marines and sailors attached to Marine units and their families throughout the recovery period.
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