When Operation Ramp It Up Founder and CEO Greg Schneider came across 100 Eagles fans tailgating, he was miles away from Lincoln Financial Field.
Operation Ramp It Up came together with the Eagles to build a wheelchair ramp for John Ivers, a Vietnam veteran who is currently in a rehabilitation facility after suffering a spinal injury. There was an outpour of family, friends, and supporters, all Birds fans, who were out in full force to assist the build.
Eagles long snapper Cal Adomitis previously worked with Operation Ramp It Up when he was on the Cincinnati Bengals, so when Schneider got a call about doing a project in Philadelphia, he reached out to Adomitis. He immediately said yes and that he will get the Eagles involved.
The experience was a unique one, even for Schneider, who completed his 337th build. He said it was one of the biggest showings he has experienced.
"We've had some big pow-wows, but [I] never expected that," Schneider said. "I'll tell you what, I am now an Eagles fan. I love Cincinnati, born and raised here, but I got a couple [Eagles] jerseys, and I've been wearing them proudly. I was so impressed by the community support and just everybody there. It was just a great couple days."
In addition to Adomitis' involvement, left tackle Jordan Mailata made an appearance, where he took time to sign autographs and sing for the fans in attendance. The Eagles also had three Cheerleaders — Alex Fan, Ashton Dobson, and Taylor Sparks — help with the build.