TIMELY DECISION

Retired Navy  Cmdr. John Wells, who is also executive director of the Military Veterans Advocacy based in Louisiana, was chosen by the New Orleans Saints to receive its Peoples Health Champion Award for highlighting the “health and well-being of our military, veterans and their families.” It’s an honor to be recognized for the good work one is doing in their community to make a difference in the lives of their neighbors, but it matters “who” is bestowing the honor. Which is exactly what Commander Wells told the Saints when he refused to accept their award.  

“Although I am touched and honored to be selected for such an award, the ongoing controversy with NFL players’ disrespect for the national flag forces me to decline to participate in the presentation,” he said. “I am unable, in good conscience, to enter an NFL stadium while this discourtesy prevails.  Since this award is tainted with the dishonorable actions of the NFL and its players, I cannot accept it.”