Eagles Cheerleader Turned Soldier Rachel Washburn Honored as Hometown Hero

First lieutenant in the U.S. Army celebrated by NFL team during game

For Rachel Washburn, it was her turn to receive the cheers.

The 25-year-old, who was a cheerleader for the Philadelphia Eagles from 2007 to 2010 before joining the United States Army, was honored as a Hometown Hero during the NFL team's game on Sunday, Dec. 22.

Now a first lieutenant, Washburn has served two tours of duty in Afghanistan and has been awarded the Bronze Star Medal, the Army Commendation Medal and the Combat, Airborne and Air Assault Badges, according to the Philadelphia Eagles website.

During her time as a student at Drexel University, Washburn became an Eagles cheerleader. She also received an ROTC scholarship as well.

After graduation, Washburn became a member of the Army's Cultural Support team.

"I'm incredibly excited and humbled by it," she said regarding the Hometown Hero honor. "I always thought that was such a wonderful thing that the Eagles did—that every game they chose somebody to showcase what they had done for every single person in that stadium. I'm so honored because I call Philadelphia home, I love the Eagles so much and I'm just excited to be home in Philadelphia and watch the Eagles win."