Ally, Rookie On The Miami Dolphins Cheerleaders

Rookie Ally recently concluded her first military tour as a NFL Cheerleaders for the Miami Dolphins. During our coverage of the Fins v Jets “Salute to Service” game we had the pleasure to chat with Ally regarding her trip.

UC: Ally,  please share with our readers the great parts of your recent military tour.

Ally: There were so many amazing parts of the tour. Starting off, speaking with all the officers and military troops on base was intriguing and eye opening. Aside from the troops, it was heartwarming to hear from the families that also make sacrifices for their husbands and wives who are in the military. You can read the compassion, sympathy and love all over their faces. Another incredible part of the tour was working with the kids of the troops. We had a football and cheer clinic for the sons and daughters; anyone was welcome. The children were so happy, sweet and excited to spend time with us, and the parents were more than appreciative.

UC: What is the reaction like from the soldiers? What unexpected feelings or emotions did the MDC contingent receive from the visit?

I was overwhelmed by the genuine enthusiasm of the military members. I went on the tour to show my gratitude for the men and women I would meet, but in turn I was touched by the gratefulness they had for me. I underestimated the mutual exchange of respect that would happen.

UC: Any personal family military stories you wish to share?

Although no members of my family are in the Armed Forces, this turned out to be an amazing learning experience for me. Interestingly, something that was not on my radar before the tour is the military family behind every service member. I have spent time thinking about the men and women who signed up to be in the military without truly appreciating the families behind the scenes and the sacrifices they are making as well.

UC: Is it true your bags are packed for a second tour?

Guantanamo Bay was my first military tour. I am more than looking forward to the military tour I was invited to go on in December. We will be traveling to Belgium, The Netherlands, The U.K., Germany, and Kosovo, for two weeks over Christmas. I am more than willing to give up my Christmas Day for the ones that give us freedom.

UC: Why do you feel it is important to take the time to visit troops abroad?

Military personnel are making life sacrifices for our personal freedoms without expecting anything in return. I think it is important as an organization to show our support for their efforts. Many of our fans are military members, veterans, or have military loved ones living all over the world. This is our opportunity to thank everyone dedicated to defending our country. Just after this brief visit, I can tell the service men and women have signed up to do a difficult and rigorous job, and our visit gave them something to look forward to, shows support from the Dolphins organization, and ultimately reminds them that America is thankful and proud of what they are doing. For me personally, going on a military tour is one small way I can give back to complete strangers I so appreciate.

UC: What does Salute to Service mean to you?

Salute to Service is about taking time out of our busy lives to sincerely appreciate what others do and have done to ensure our freedoms, also to grasp the willingness for sacrifice, with our lasting gratitude. It is a time for our country to join together, despite any differences, and recognize those who make the ultimate sacrifices.

UC: Thank you Ally, you are a very special young lady, good luck and stay safe.

Visit Ally and her MDC teammates  HERE