Parkland Students Have Mark Of A Patriot. The Pats Owner Said So

There were different type of patriots on the New England team this weekend. Last Thursday, Patriots owner Robert Kraft lent one of the NFL franchise's two planes to be used to transport students, victims, and families of victims of the Marjory Stoneman Douglas shooting in Parkland, Florida, to the "March for Our Lives" in Washington D.C. When the passengers got on the flight, they found a letter from Kraft and a Patriots hat waiting on each seat.

"I want to express our support as you travel to Washington for this weekend's March for Our Lives. In the wake of incredible tragedy, we have hurt for you, mourned with you, and been inspired by you. It is an honor for us to now partner with you as you push for progress," Kraft wrote. "Your community is stirring our country towards a better future. That is the mark of a patriot."

The quote, "Never believe that a few caring people can't change the world. For, indeed, that's all who ever have," from author and cultural anthropologist Margaret Mead was included too.

The extra space was needed for some passengers who were injured during the shooting. Kyle Laman, a freshman at the high school who was shot, told Sports Illustrated's MMQB that he had his own row to stretch out his injured leg and ankle.

While Kraft declined a request for comment from MMQB, his commitment to helping and promoting student talent is known in the area. Earlier this month, Jeremie Smith, the Kraft Group's business development and external affairs manager, said during a discussion on a new Kraft family scholarship, "The Kraft Family looks to invest in the future and that's students."

The decision to let the group use the plane came after Kraft was contacted by former Arizona Representative Gabrielle Giffords and her husband, Mark Kelly.

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