“Recently I was offered the opportunity to receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom, which I was flattered by out of respect for what the honor represents and admiration for prior recipients. Subsequently, the tragic events of last week occurred and the decision has been made not to move forward with the award.

“Above all, I am an American citizen with great reverence for our nation’s values, freedom and democracy. I know I also represent my family and the New England Patriots team. One of the most rewarding things in my professional career took place in 2020 when, through the great leadership within our team, conversations about social justice, equality and human rights moved to the forefront and became actions.

“Continuing those efforts while remaining true to the people, team and country I love outweigh the benefits of any individual award.”

Bill Belichik

In the several years I’ve included this, my personal blog, in my public and private life on the Internet, I must have previously noted that I’m a supporter of the New England Patriots in the NFL. Lots of contributing factors above and beyond the usual sports-on-TV watchers reasons. About as traditional as it gets in most sports around the world.

The Pats were my home team. Not just that I lived in the Boston area and this was a serious New England team in the NFL. I mean they were my HOME team – the last place I lived in New England before moving Out West. When the Pats were playing a home game, I would get on my mountain bike and make it through a couple old paved backroads, some dirt roads, a bike track through the woods…all in under 45 minutes. Lock my bike to any handy evergreen – so, it would be hidden – as well as secure. Walk another couple minutes into Schaefer Stadium parking lot and up to the main gate. Up into the stands to support my home team.

GO PATS!

BRAVO, BELICHIK!