Nevada recognized as finalist for OHT Excellence in Service Award

Courtesy of Nevada

RENO, Nev. – Nevada Athletics was recognized by Operation Hat Trick (OHT) as a finalist for its 2025 Excellence in Service Award.

Nevada was one of 13 finalists for the honor—finalists were chosen based on their efforts to fully integrate OHT on and off their respective campuses through a presence in their bookstores and retail outlets, promoting veterans’ causes through their social media properties and advertising campaigns, and generating additional revenue that will be used to support the recovery of wounded service members and veterans.

Nevada’s recognition of its veterans proudly continues fulfilling a vow made by University President Brian Sandoval ’86 upon beginning his first of two terms as the state’s governor in 2011—to make Nevada “the most military-friendly state in the United States.” Now, in his current position, Sandoval wants to make Nevada the most military- and veteran-friendly University.

This past fall, Nevada made significant upgrades to Memorial Square, located in the southwest corner of Mackay Stadium. Memorial Square houses a flag pole and plaque dedicated to former Wolf Pack football and track and field student athlete Frederick “Freddie” Williams (1962-64), who after his time at Nevada served in the Marine Corps. Williams was killed in action in Vietnam in 1968 at the age of 25.

At the ceremony held November 6 prior to Nevada’s football game against Colorado State, a new base for the flag pole, a new pillar, and a replica of a 1960s-era Wolf Pack football helmet were added to Memorial Square.

Additionally, a POW/MIA Chair of Honor was dedicated in the section adjacent to Memorial Square.

Last August, the football program unveiled the “Battle Born Shield,” a gift from historian John Galloway that was carried by a selected player every game and led the Wolf Pack onto the field.

Nevada’s gratitude for those who have served the country includes recognition of a distinguished veteran from the Northern Nevada community before the start of every football game. As part of the recognition, the veteran is presented an American flag from President Sandoval, University of Nevada First Lady Lauralyn Sandoval, and Nevada Athletics Director Stephanie Rempe.

Cash awards from OHT on behalf of the award’s finalists and winners were made to organizations designated by the schools. On behalf of Nevada, OHT made a gift to the Nevada Military Support Alliance, a 501(c)3 organization whose mission is to organize and promote the recognition and support of “Nevada’s Men and Women of our armed forces, veterans, and their families.”

“It’s truly an Honor to be recognized by OHT for Nevada Military Support Alliance’s (NMSA) work within Nevada. Their generous support ensures our mission continues to support veterans and their families throughout our great State. Thank you, thank you, thank you,” said Col. John Brownell, President of NMSA.

Founded by Dot Sheehan in 2007, Operation Hat Trick (OHT) generates awareness, support and funding for the recovery of America’s wounded service members and veterans. The 501(c)3 has been recognized by GuideStar six years in a row as a Platinum seal of transparency organization for its responsible stewardship.