Quinton Carter, Teammates Give Back to Servicemen

Quinton Carter and fellow Sooner teammates visited the Oklahoma Veterans Center to give back to those who served the United States military.

Thursday, May 26th 2011, 12:07 pm

By: News On 6

Quinton Carter, Teammates Give Back to Servicemen

Originally Published: Dec 31, 2010 8:32 AM CDT

Jessica Coody
Oklahoma Sports Mobile Journalist

NORMAN, Oklahoma -- The room full of servicemen lit up as members of the Sooner football team entered. It was just a few days before Christmas and Quinton Carter and his teammates had a surprise for them.

The soft spoken, selfless senior came with gift baskets for the residents of Oklahoma Veterans Center in Norman. Filled with gifts, the baskets brought an afternoon of happiness to some who may not have had much else.

Service is a lifelong commitment and passion for the men and women of the U.S. military. The residents’ stories date back to the World War II, spanning the history of the United States for decades. But with that service and commitment to their country came sacrifice. It’s from that sacrifice, Carter and his teammates found a reason to give back.

“They spent a lot of time fighting for our country, fighting for our freedom,” Carter said. “I think it’s important that we give back to them.”

Carter, who has a heart for service himself, founded the non-profit organization S.O.U.L., or Serving Others through Unity and Leadership. His efforts have impacted children in the Norman community, the elderly and those around him every day.

His focus this Christmas was on the brave individuals who were willing to serve the United States to ensure the liberties he enjoys today, including playing football.