Everywhere you turned on Monday afternoon at Heinz Field the Gold Jackets were visible as seven Steelers Hall of Famers gathered together for an afternoon of sharing stories, reliving memories and enjoying plenty of laughter.
Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Famers Mel Blount, Dermontti Dawson, Joe Greene, Franco Harris, Dan Rooney, John Stallworth and Lynn Swann recieved new Hall of Fame rings at a luncheon today.
The players were there to receive the new version of their Hall of Fame rings, designed by Kay Jewelers. But it wasn't just about the rings, it was about the friendships.
Mel Blount, Dermontti Dawson, Joe Greene, Franco Harris, Dan Rooney, John Stallworth and Lynn Swann all attended the luncheon at the PNC Champions Club at Heinz Field, an afternoon they will always remember.
"Gathering here today brings back memories of the great team and ownership we have here in Pittsburgh," said Harris. "It's not only something to have great people, but the most important thing is can you accomplish great things and set a new standard. That is what we did during the 1970s. It was an unbelievable run with great guys and we set the new standards.
"Then to be able to go into the Hall of Fame with this great group of guys makes it extra special. I am honored to share a moment like this with my teammates who are in the Hall of Fame."
The lunch, which was attended by members of Steelers Nation Unite, included a conversation with the Hall of Famers where they shared stories about the day they got the call they were elected, to their speeches, and what it means to be a Hall of Famer.
"It's a wonderful honor to be in the Hall of Fame," said Swann. "It's really a team award. I couldn't be here with this patch on the jacket if it wasn't for the guys who blocked and tackled, who didn't see much action themselves. It's an honor for the whole team and organization to have this many guys in the Hall of Fame.
"I am honored to have the patch and wear it on behalf of the Pittsburgh Steelers."
After the luncheon, Hall of Fame President David Baker presented each with their ring, another memory for a lifetime.
"This was a great event," said Blount. "When you can get guys you went through the battles with and won championships, and you look around and they are in the Hall of Fame. We like reminiscing about the stories, the time we got the announcement we were voted in. It was just special."
