Several Division I football coaches will visit military bases in the Middle East next month. Georgia’s Mark Richt, Miami’s Randy Shannon, Yale’s Jack Siedlecki, Auburn’s Tommy Tuberville and Notre Dame’s Charlie Weis will visit troops and coach flag football teams the week of May 20.

The coaches will also hold a symposium, including a question-and-answer session with the servicemembers. The trip is sponsored by Armed Forces Entertainment, the lead federal agency for providing entertainment to U.S. military personnel serving overseas.

Richt, who has family ties to several branches of the military, said the coaches support the troops “not only in prayer, but in person.”

“We love the soldiers and their willingness to sacrifice for our country,” Richt said. “I look forward to meeting as many of our men and women in the armed forces as possible during the visit.”

Weis noted that the trip will be made during the week leading up to Memorial Day.

“My family and I believe this to be a small way to thank and support our troops for defending our country,” he said. “As a proud Notre Dame alumnus, I consider this trip to be a privilege, and I’m looking forward to it with great anticipation.”