George Kittle, the nominee for the 49ers’ NFL Salute to Service Award, received a meaningful gesture from Army veteran Christopher Kleinsorge during the team’s victory over the Jaguars. Kleinsorge, a lifelong 49ers fan who served in Afghanistan, approached Kittle’s wife, Claire, on the sideline before the game. After a brief conversation, he presented her with three items, including a piece of his uniform worn during his service 15 years ago.
Expressing his desire for the gift to hold significant meaning, Kleinsorge, now residing in Indialantic, Florida, emphasized that he wanted to offer something more meaningful than a standard certificate of appreciation. Having grown up as a 49ers fan in Santa Rosa, he acknowledged the team’s consistent support for veterans and highlighted Kittle’s impactful contributions.
The significance of the gift was heightened by a message written by Kleinsorge on the back of the uniform, expressing gratitude to Kittle as the Salute to Service nominee. The inscription, accompanied by Kleinsorge’s signature, conveyed appreciation for Kittle’s support of military veterans.
Kleinsorge, who served in Afghanistan from 2007 to 2008 and was medically discharged after eight and a half years of active duty, explained that football, especially the 49ers, provided a welcome distraction during his overseas deployment. He commended Kittle for his dedication, both on and off the field, and noted Kittle’s willingness to contribute time and resources to support veterans.
After the game, Kittle, upon discovering the heartfelt inscription, was deeply moved. In a generous gesture, he offered to fly Kleinsorge and his wife to Northern California for the 49ers’ Week 11 home matchup against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. As a result, Kleinsorge and his wife attended the game at Levi’s Stadium, coinciding with the 49ers’ Salute to Service game.