Army Football Reveals Cool Black Skull Helmet For Today’s Game

In a move that would make Captain Jack Sparrow proud, the US Military Academy’s football team, the Army Black Knights, will be sporting the skull and crossbones on their helmets for today’s game against the Air Force Falcons. It’s a black-on-black design, which I think looks particularly badass.

This design choice is deeply rooted in military symbolism and reflects the team’s commitment to honoring their legacy. West Point‘s “Black Flag” has been a symbol of Army Football excellence for more than a quarter of a century. It is proudly run out of the tunnel by a Cadet each game day, a symbol of camaraderie, toughness, tenacity, and accountability.

The skull and crossbones, historically known as the “Jolly Roger,” have been a prominent symbol in various military contexts. Notably, it was adopted by the Royal Navy’s submarine service during World War I as a mark of successful missions. In the U.S. military, several aviation squadrons, including the Navy’s Strike Fighter Squadron 103 (VFA-103), have utilized the emblem to signify bravery and a fighting spirit.

In a bit of good-natured fun, a clever X’er came up with a helmet design of their own for Air Force football.

Here is Air Force’s helmet.. #goarmy @ArmyWP_Football @GoArmyWestPoint

Go Army! pic.twitter.com/wHB3C5gEHf

— GenXer (@paireenormal) November 1, 2024

For the Army Black Knights, the skull and crossbones hold special significance. The team traditionally carries a flag bearing this emblem when entering the field, symbolizing unity and determination. By incorporating it into their helmet design, the team aims to embody these values on the gridiron.

Of course, there are those who question the design. They say the black-on-black emblem will be impossible to be seen by those in the stands and can only be seen by those watching the game on TV during extreme close-ups.