Ben Kotwica, Special Teams Coach
Ben Kotwica, Senior Special Teams Assistant Coach for the Baltimore Ravens, embodies the NFL's Salute to Service commitment to service members, veterans, and military families through both his military service and his continued support of the community. A U.S. Army veteran, Kotwica understands firsthand the service and sacrifice of military members and their families. He played linebacker and served as a team captain at West Point from 1993 to 1996 before spending eight years in the Army, serving in Bosnia-Herzegovina, Korea, and Iraq. Commissioned in the Army's Aviation Branch, he flew the AH-64 Apache Longbow and served as an attack helicopter platoon leader supporting the 82nd Airborne Division. He later served as a company commander during Operation Iraqi Freedom II, logging more than 500 combat hours and rising to the rank of captain. The leadership, trust, and teamwork Kotwica developed in the Army have remained central throughout his nearly 20-year NFL coaching career. As a veteran, he continues giving back to the military community through organizations including TAPS, which provides resources and support to families grieving the loss of a military loved one. Through his unique experience as both an Army veteran and NFL coach, Kotwica honors those who serve, provides encouragement and support to military families, and strengthens the connection between the military and NFL communities.