Service members played their own version of the Army-Navy service academy rivalry game, continuing the tradition of an annual flag football at Buckley Air Force Base, Dec. 9.

Army beat Navy 14-8 in their first win in the last five years during the annual challenge.

"I work with the Army on a daily basis here at a joint command, so there are many friends on both sides of the ball," said Petty Officer 1st Class Jeremy Duty. "This time of year we become rivals on the field, so it's really amazing to see the Navy and Army pride when meeting up for bragging rights."

During the first quarter, Petty Officer 3rd Class Jay Atkins caught a 25-yard touchdown pass, which was followed by a two-point conversion to put Navy in the lead 0-8.

"At the end of the day, no matter who wins we all have each others' back," said Duty.

Petty Officer 1st Class Julian Gonzalez displayed some Navy pride while playing in a Battle of Mobile Bay tribute jersey with the famous "Damn the Torpedoes, Full Speed Ahead," quote from Adm. David Glasgow Farragut. He completed several long runs, including a 23-yard handoff in the second quarter.

The Army team quickly caught up with multiple turnovers and several completions leading to a 14-point rally, bringing the game to its 14-8 conclusion.

"The game was hard fought until the very end," said Petty Officer 1st Class Matt Smith. "No matter how the game ended or what the final score was, each team left it all on the field."

After the game, the players shook hands to congratulate each other over the tough fought game, while looking forward to another faceoff in 2017.

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