Todd Blackledge and Kenny Jackson were among eight former NFL football stars to visit troops in Kuwait during the USO's Operation Gridiron. For the full story, visit http://live.psu.edu/story/30101 online.

Photo Credit: Provided by Todd Blackledge

Year Taken: 2008

Araf Jan base in Kuwait reminded Kenny Jackson of a college campus, with residence halls, a dining hall and other buildings.

Photo Credit: Kenny Jackson

Year Taken: 2008

Troops were happy to meet the former NFL stars, and many got autographs.

Photo Credit: Sarah McConnell

Year Taken: 2008

Todd Blackledge tries on some of the gear worn by soldiers in Kuwait.

Photo Credit: Kenny Jackson

Year Taken: 2008

While in Kuwait, the players got to tour several bases and even got an up-close look at some of the tanks.

Photo Credit: Provided by Kenny Jackson

Year Taken: 2008

The flag football tournament took place on a dirt field, but as Kenny Jackson explained, the fields all were lined and well-marked.

Photo Credit: Kenny Jackson

Year Taken: 2008

Flag football team "Go Getta" takes a water break.

Photo Credit: Kenny Jackson

Year Taken: 2008

Because it's so hot during the day, a lot of the flag football took place at night.

Photo Credit: Kenny Jackson

Year Taken: 2008