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7th Annual Lettermen of the USA-One Yard at a Time Gala February 27, 2026
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — Lettermen of the USA (LotUSA) will host its 7th Annual One Yard at a Time Gala on Friday, February 27, 2026, at The Club in Birmingham. This signature fundraising event brings together athletes, veterans, community leaders, and supporters to advance LotUSA’s mission of empowering those who have sacrificed for our nation.
Guests will enjoy an evening of dining, music, and camaraderie while socializing with military heroes, former college and professional football players, and coaches—all united in raising critical funds for veterans in need. Proceeds from the Silent and Live Auctions, conducted by Jack Granger of Granger, Thagard & Associates, Inc., directly benefit discharged and wounded veterans through LotUSA’s growing network of support programs.
Honoring Excellence in Service and Leadership
This year’s Gala will celebrate two distinguished honorees whose lives reflect service, sacrifice, and outstanding leadership both on and off the field.
2026 Athletic Honoree – Steadman Shealy Former University of Alabama quarterback Steadman Shealy helped lead the Crimson Tide to the 1979 National Championship under legendary coach Paul “Bear” Bryant. Following his athletic career, Shealy built a respected legacy as an attorney and community leader, dedicating his life to professional excellence and public service. His story continues to inspire generations to live with integrity, courage, and purpose.
2026 Military Honoree – Alan Cook has served the United States with distinction, earning recognition for exemplary leadership, courage, and devotion to those under his command. His military accomplishments and his ongoing commitment to supporting veterans after active duty embody the highest ideals of service above self.
Fueling LotUSA’s Mission, One Yard at a Time
Proceeds from the Gala directly support Lettermen of the USA’s vital outreach programs, which provide real, immediate assistance to veterans, wounded veterans, and former college athletes. Core initiatives include:
Autographs for Heroes
Food for Heroes
Heroes Village
Homes for Heroes
Laptops for Heroes
Rent for Heroes
Shelter for Heroes
Utilities for Heroes
Wheels for Heroes
Details about each program, upcoming projects, and ways to get involved can be found at www.LotUSA.org.
A Legacy of Service
Darryl Fuhrman, former University of Alabama football player and Founder/President of Lettermen of the USA, established the organization following the devastating 2011 tornado in Tuscaloosa. What began with a charitable Iron Bowl flag football event—raising $150,000 for the Governor’s Emergency Relief Fund—has grown into a national nonprofit with impactful programs serving America’s veterans. “We are honored to recognize these extraordinary leaders at this year’s gala,” said Fuhrman. “It will be a powerful evening of celebration and support for our veterans—helping them continue to take life one yard at a time.”
EVENT INFORMATION
7th Annual Lettermen of the USA “One Yard at a Time” Gala
Friday, February 27, 2026 | 6:00–10:00 PM
Dinner • Music • Live Auction
The Club 1 Robert Smith Drive Birmingham, AL 35209
Checks payable to:
Lettermen of the USA
459 Main Street, Suite 101 PMB 226
Trussville, AL 35173
Tickets & Sponsorship Packages: www.LotUSA.org
205-394-7521
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Event Venue & Nearby Stays
TheClub Birmingham, 93 Robert S Smith Dr, Birmingham, AL 35209-1263, United States
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