Green Bay Reporter

The Green Bay Packers, in collaboration with Network Health, honored U.S. Army veteran John Craemer during Monday night's game against the New Orleans Saints as part of 'Operation Fan Mail.' This initiative has been recognizing military families and veterans at each Packers home game for 18 seasons.

John Craemer began his military career in 1992 and achieved the rank of Master Sergeant. He served in Iraq twice, Afghanistan, and Kosovo, earning several accolades, including three Bronze Star medals. In 2014, Craemer faced a significant health challenge when he was diagnosed with stage 4 neck cancer. Radiation treatment damaged his jaw, necessitating reconstruction using his fibula. After over 30 years of service marked by resilience and commitment, he retired from the Army on medical grounds in 2023.

Originally from Eau Claire, Wisconsin, Craemer now lives in Allouez and is involved with various community organizations such as the Press Times, Northeast Wisconsin Technical College, and the Green Bay Coast Guard Auxiliary. His wife Gigi, a cancer survivor who also served deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan with the U.S. State Department, nominated him for this recognition. Fellow veterans Will Despins and Jack Gage joined John and Gigi at the game.

Since its inception in 2007, Operation Fan Mail aims to honor active-duty military personnel or veterans along with their families. Honorees are acknowledged on video boards before games and receive four tickets courtesy of Network Health. Throughout the 2024 season, a family will be recognized at each home game during pregame activities; thus far, 215 families have been celebrated over previous seasons.

Families or friends interested in nominating someone for recognition can submit an essay of up to 500 words explaining why a particular fan deserves acknowledgment this season. Submissions can be sent via mail to Operation Fan Mail or online through the Packers' website.