Did Roger Staubach Serve in the Military?
Roger Staubach is a legendary American football player and coach who is best known for his successful career in the National Football League (NFL). He played college football at the United States Naval Academy and later had a remarkable 11-year career as a quarterback for the Dallas Cowboys. One of the most intriguing facts about Roger Staubach’s life is his involvement in the United States Navy.
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Roger Staubach’s journey to becoming a naval officer began during his sophomore year at the United States Naval Academy, where he was drafted by the Dallas Cowboys in 1964. However, he delayed his NFL career to serve his country for five years, fulfilling his obligation to the Navy from 1965 to 1970. Staubach’s impressive academic performance and athletic accomplishments made him an ideal candidate for officer training.
During his Navy service, Staubach served in Vietnam as a naval flight officer, flying combat sorties over North Vietnam for a brief period. Unfortunately, due to the restrictions placed on naval aviators at the time, his flight operations were limited. After returning from Vietnam, Staubach continued his service with the Navy Reserve, remaining on active duty until his honorable discharge in 1971.
Roger Staubach’s Military Service Resume
- United States Naval Academy (1963-1965)
- Drafted into the Navy in 1964, delaying his NFL career to serve his country
- Graduated with honors, earning the highest class rank in football and athletic director’s "Key Leader" award
- United States Navy (1965-1970)
- Served as a naval flight officer, flying combat sorties over North Vietnam (limited due to military restrictions)
- Remaining on active duty until honorable discharge in 1971
- United States Navy Reserve (1970-1971)
- Continuing service until his final honor discharge, allowing him to return to his NFL career
Roger Staubach’s NFL Career after the Navy
After Staubach’s military service, he returned to football and started his NFL career with the Dallas Cowboys, where he played from 1969 to 1979. During this period, he led the Cowboys to four Super Bowls and won two. His most notable achievements included being:
- MVP of Super Bowl VI
- Super Bowl XII Champion
- 3-time Pro Bowl Quarterback
Staubach’s Legacy on and off the Field
Roger Staubach’s remarkable military career, football achievements, and off-the-field endeavors make him a true American sports legend. His dedication to his country and his career have set an inspiring example for athletes and non-athletes alike. With a distinguished military service background, an illustrious football career, and a career as a successful businessman (Co-President of Jones Lang LaSalle), Staubach’s storied journey is a shining example of what it means to balance duty, teamwork, and personal ambition.
As we reflect on Roger Staubach’s incredible accomplishments, we’re reminded that his military service was only one aspect of his storied career, yet it played an instrumental role in shaping the man who became known as "The Golden Arm".
Conclusion: Roger Staubach did serve in the Military!
In answer to our initial question: YES, Roger Staubach served in the military, proudly serving in the United States Navy during his younger years. With a combined 11 years of dedication to his country, followed by an awe-inspiring 11-year career with the Dallas Cowboys, Roger Staubach embodies the spirit of duty, teamwork, and American exceptionalism.
In highlighting Roger Staubach’s military service and remarkable athletic achievements, it is crucial to acknowledge and honor his remarkable life journey. As an American sports hero, businessman, and U.S. Naval Academy alum, Staubach sets a sterling example for our nation, inspiring future generations to balance their passions and service, just as Roger Staubach skillfully managed his dual loyalties to country, family, and football field.
Roger Staubach’s Legacy at a Glance
Athletic Accomplishments:
• 4 Super Bowl appearances
• 2 Super Bowl championships
• 3-time Pro Bowl Quarterback
• 1975 NFL MVP candidate
• 1974 NFL Second-Team Quarterback
• 9 Pro-Bowl appearances for the Cowboys
United States Navy Service:
• Drafted into the Navy in 1964
• Served 5 years in active duty (1965-1970) in the United States Navy
• Honorable discharge in 1971
• United States Navy Reserve (1970-1971), final years of service
• Flew combat missions in North Vietnam (though operations were limited due to military restrictions)
Philanthropy and Business Acumen:
• Founded The Staubach Company (1982) which later merged with Jones Lang LaSalle (2013)
• Member of The National Baseball Hall of Fame Class of 2013 Selection Committee
• Multiple charity boards and organizations
• Active in multiple entrepreneurial endeavors, including ventures in education, healthcare, and commercial real estate.
This extraordinary individual’s multi-faceted career deserves to be celebrated and immortalized in the annals of American sports history!
