CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WCIA) — Illinois Head Football Coach Bret Bielema and his family are kicking off an initiative to honor those who serve in the military.

In recognition of Military Appreciation Day on Nov. 15 vs. Maryland, Bielema has pledged to match tickets purchased by Illini fans to bring veterans, active-duty military and their families to Memorial Stadium. This initiative is aimed at filling the seats with heroes from across Illinois and beyond for the team’s annual Military Appreciation game.

Additionally, the matched tickets will be donated directly to service members and organizations that support them.

“Our family believes deeply in honoring those who sacrifice so much for our freedom and safety,” Bielema said. “We are grateful for the opportunity to say thank you and give them the chance to enjoy a day of celebration, recognition, and Illini Football.”

Fans are being invited to participate by buying specially designated $20 tickets through the campaign. For every ticket purchased, Bielema will match it in an effort to double the impact and the number of honored guests who will get to experience and enjoy the game.

More information, including how people are able to contribute and how organizations can request donated tickets, is available here. Tickets for the Military Appreciation initiative will be given out through Vet Tix. Anyone interested in getting tickets through this program can register on their website and create an account.