Written by Brock Cornell
Gold Star Wife and VBC Member Becky Nyren shared this extraordinary essay written by high school senior Brock Cornell. Brock had played in the annual Gold Star football games, where players wear the names of the fallen on their uniforms. Here is Becky’s description:
Brock Cornell, a Senior standout at West Allegheny High School in Imperial wrote the following essay for his college admission to the University of Pennsylvania, Wharton School of Business…where he will start in the fall and play football. For the past three years Brock represented my husband, SSG Nathaniel Nyren, who was killed in Iraq in 2004. The Western Pennsylvania Gold Star games are sponsored by Legacies Alive out of Beaver County. Each year high school players give up their name for one game to honor a fallen hero.
Here is Brock’s essay:
For the past three years, the Gold Star game has been a defining moment in my life, shaping my perspective on sacrifice, honor, and gratitude. This annual football event holds a special place in my heart as it allows me to pay tribute to a fallen hero, Nathaniel Nyren, who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country. What began as a simple act of remembrance has blossomed into a profound connection with Nate’s wife Becky and a deep sense of purpose and gratitude.
At the Gold Star game, instead of hearing my name announced over the loudspeaker, it is Nate’s name that resonates through the stadium whenever I make a play. “Touchdown by number seven, Nathaniel Nyren,” echoes through the crowd, a poignant reminder of the heroism and sacrifice that Nate embodied. Initially, I did not fully grasp the significance of this gesture, but that changed when I had the privilege of meeting Nate’s wife.
Meeting Nate’s wife was a transformative experience that forever changed my perspective. She welcomed me with open arms, expressing her gratitude for honoring her late husband. Through our interactions, she shared stories of Nate’s bravery, his love for his country, and his unwavering commitment to service. In her, I found strength, resilience, and a deep sense of connection that transcended words.
As the years passed, Nate’s wife became like family to me, attending each Gold Star game and offering unwavering support and encouragement. Our bond grew stronger with each passing year, fueled by a shared commitment to honoring Nate’s legacy and cherishing his memory. The selfless act of honoring Nate through the Goldstar game has not only brought solace to his family but has also enriched my life in ways I never imagined.
The impact of the Gold Star game and Nate’s legacy on me has been profound. It has instilled in me a deep sense of gratitude for the sacrifices made by our servicemen and women, a renewed appreciation for the importance of honoring our heroes, and a profound understanding of the power of remembrance. Nate’s spirit has served as a guiding light, inspiring me to give my all on the football field and in all aspects of my life.
The Gold Star game has become more than just a football event; it is a testament to the enduring power of remembrance, honor, and gratitude. As I take the field each year, I do so with a heart full of gratitude, a mind focused on honoring Nate’s memory, and a spirit uplifted by the love and support of his wife Becky. The Gold Star game has not only enriched my life but has also reaffirmed my commitment to honoring the heroes who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our country.
