Over the fourth of July weekend, several members of the UW-Whitewater football team spent their time at the Milwaukee Country Zoo. But it wasn't a sightseeing trip.

Milwaukee County executive Scott Walker wanted to thank veterans and their families by offering them free admission to the zoo as part of Milwaukee County Operation Freedom. UW-Whitewater alumnus and former Warhawk football player Tom Karthausser notified the Warhawks of the volunteer opportunity at the zoo.

Head coach Lance Leipold said, "as a team we want to give back to the community." The Warhawks were there to offer support by spending the day grilling food for the veterans. Karthausser said, "They did an outstanding job. Collectively, we grilled 24,000 pieces of meat and all was served to veterans and their families."

Cornerback Troney Sumpert said, "It was a great opportunity to be active in the community."

Those that volunteered included current players Logan Allemand, Tim Depies, Mark Gawronski, Grant Murray, Sam Overton, Aaron Rusch, Troney Sumpert, Jake Taylor, Paul Wick and former Warhawk Pete Kishline.