Troy Polamalu is known for being an outstanding safety for the Pittsburgh Steelers. However, what he is most famous for is his long curly hair that he has not cut since 2000.
As part of a Veteran’s Day event for the Veterans of Foreign Wars Foundation, Polamalu agreed to cut off four locks of his hair to be auctioned off to raise money for the veterans. While this may not seem like a big deal to most, it is for Polamalu and his sponsor, Head and Shoulders Men. What you may not know is, they have his hair insured for $1 million dollars. When asked by a reporter for GQ if this cut would affect the insurance policy, Polamalu responded while laughing saying, “What they’re cutting is probably about $100,000 worth of hair. No, no it’s fortunately not.”
The Veterans of Foreign Wars Foundation’s official website describes the history of the foundation and why it was created. “The Veterans of Foreign Wars of the U.S. is a nonprofit veterans’ service organization comprised of combat veterans and eligible military service members from the active, Guard and Reserve forces. Founded in 1899 and chartered by Congress in 1936, the VFW is the nation’s largest organization of war veterans and its oldest major veterans’ organization.”
.@tpolamalu participated in a ceremonial haircut at yesterday's #VFWManeEvent. Thanks to all who showed their support pic.twitter.com/RYDHBq4NkZ
— Head & Shoulders Men (@HSforMen) November 12, 2013
Polamalu is a major supporter of our veterans and says he would not be doing this if it wasn’t for a good cause. Polamalu and his wife, Theodora, developed the Harry Panos Fund in remembrance of Theodora’s grandfather, who served in World War II.
“I understand the issues that veterans and their families face while serving our country, and I am honored to join the Veterans of Foreign Wars Mane Event, encouraging the nation to unite for veterans for a second year,” Polamalu said. “By getting my hair cut on Veterans Day, I am showing my commitment to the men and women who served our country, the real heroes.” He continued, “My hair is more like an appendage that’s been growing and I don’t want to lose it. I definitely wouldn’t be cutting my hair if it weren’t to help raise awareness and support the cause.”
On my way to Heinz Field for my #VFWManeEvent haircut. Who else is getting their haircut today? http://t.co/bWPoxceYei
— Troy Polamalu (@tpolamalu) November 11, 2013
The “Mane Event” raised $208,327, according to the Veterans of Foreign Wards Foundation’s website.
Image via Twitter