Serving veterans, one scoop at a time

Photo of Badgers Give Back 2017 VA Hospital Ice Cream Social George Rushing and Angela Morrow

Serving veterans, one scoop at a time

August 04, 2017 | Football, General News, Softball, Badgers Give Back

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Wisconsin student-athletes gave back to local veterans, in the form of an ice cream sundae

MADISON, Wis. — July is a time when Americans come together to celebrate freedom and recognize those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice for the country. Whether it be a friend or family member, we all know someone who has served. To show our gratitude here in Madison, Wisconsin Athletics helped organize a volunteer opportunity for our student-athletes to show their appreciation for American heroes.

At William S. Middleton Veteran Hospital in Madison, student-athletes from five sports answered the call to give back. The Badgers assisted the Military Order of Pup Tent #41 and served over 200 ice cream sundaes to veterans and VA staff.

Photo of Badgers Give Back 2017 VA Hospital Ice Cream Social with George Rushing, Angela Marrow and Kelsey Grambeau — Wisconsin student-athletes George Rushing (football), Angela Morrow (softball) and Kelsey Grambeau (tennis) are prepped and ready to serve.

"This day went smoothly thanks to the student-athletes and Badgers Give Back," said Joseph Baumann of the Military Order. "The vets here recognize the W as well as the cardinal and white that the student-athletes bear on their apparel, and when they [the veterans] see the student-athletes, their faces light up, and it is great to see."

Football wide receiver, George Rushing, even felt a little sore after helping scoop the couple hundred orders.

"My forearm is sore that's for sure," Rushing said jokingly. "But anytime you can contribute to brightening the day of a veteran, it is well worth it."

Photo of Badgers Give Back 2017 VA Hospital Ice Cream Social group of student-athletes and veterans — After 200 bowls of ice cream, student-athletes and veterans take a moment to come together and reflect on the day.

For softball pitcher, Angela Morrow, participating in the veterans ice cream social was of special significance.

"Being able to repay the veterans in any way means a lot to me," she said. "My grandpa is a veteran and I love to help in any way possible, big or small, to those who sacrifice so much for us."

To learn about ways you can make a difference in the life of veterans visit www.volunteer.va.gov.

Photo of Badgers Give Back 2017 VA Hospital Ice Cream Social Baylee Wellhausen with veterans — Taking a moment away for gratitude, Baylee Wellhausen of women's hockey, steps aside and thanks those who have given so much.

Main photo caption: Wisconsin student-athletes George Rushing (football) and Angela Morrow (softball) are ready to scoop strawberry and vanilla ice cream, a few of the veterans' favorite flavors.