ATLANTA — With the Super Bowl just days away, an Atlanta Falcon has given a special veteran the surprise of a lifetime.
Running back Bijan Robinson teamed up with USAA and The American Legion to surprise Marine Corps veteran Mark Cauble with two tickets to the big game at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas.
"This guy is a really deserving man and so inspirational to see and I just can't wait to surprise," Robinson said in an Instagram video of the heartwarming moment.
Cauble served during the '90s, achieving Sergeant ranks and various other roles for nine years. He was assigned to many bases, mainly in North Carolina. He is a current American Legion member with hopes of continuing his service, the USAA said.
The veteran told 11Alive on Thursday he was called in to shoot a USAA commercial with Robinson. He then got a call that Robinson had to back out, but then got surprised with two giant tickets.
"After learning about Mark’s service to our country and his continued service to fellow veterans, it was a blessing to join USAA, the NFL, and the American Legion to surprise him with tickets to the Super Bowl in Las Vegas," Robinson said. "It means a lot to mean to present that to him."
The Marine veteran has also made many deployments overseas, including operations in Panama, Okinawa, and more. Cauble has a decorated background with an achievement medal, Combat Action Ribbon and many more, according to the USAA and the NFL.
He is a lifelong NFL fan who loves the Panthers. After the surprise, Cauble said he is now a Bijan Robinson fan.
"After seeing the Bijan and and getting me those tickets, I'm definitely a big fan. Matter of fact, I even told him, you've got a really big fan in North Carolina. Now, if you need anything, you just let me know," he said.
Watch the full surprise on Robinson's and the USAA's Instagram page here.
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The veteran said he was stoked to go to the Super Bowl this year as he experiences his first big game. He also said he is excited about the Salute to Service event to represent other veterans and other serving the country.
"Well, I've never been to a Super Bowl and this is my first time, so, I've been to plenty of games, but nothing this big. Not even a playoff game. So, this is pretty big for me as far as the game itself," the veteran said.
Cauble also has a daughter who currently serves in the Marines as a Staff Sergeant in South Carolina, said the USAA.
"This is an honor and for Bijan coming all the way out here to even give it to me is unbelievable. All the thanks to my mentors in American Legion as well because I wouldn't be here if it wasn't for them and, of course, all of my veterans that have served with me," Cauble said in the Instagram video.
He told USAA that he plans on bringing his girlfriend with him to the Super Bowl as he roots for 49ers.