Swampscott's Toner Recognized By New England Patriots

SWAMPSCOTT, MA - Former New England Patriots linebacker and Swampscott resident Ed Toner was recently rewarded for his service to the team by being named the first-ever Patriots Alumni Volunteer of the Year, according to Salem News.

Toner played as a Patriots linebacker and center during the late 1960s. After Toner, 73, suffered a significant break in his left leg just over a year ago, the Patriots Alumni set him up with a personal driver to shuttle him around to various Patriots events.

"It's basically a community service award. They gave me a nice football and my wife (Dianne) let me put it in the living room so that was good," joked Toner, who attended UMass Amherst before playing for the then Boston Patriots from 1967-1969 alongside the likes of legends Jim Nance, Gino Cappelletti and Jim Plunkett.

"I was very honored. I've always done my share and this past year I suppose I've done more than my share. Special Olympics, seeing troops off at Pease Air Force base, blood drives ... all these different events. And if I can go, I go."

On December 13, Toner is scheduled to appear at Gillette Stadium for a special foster homes Christmas giveaway at neighboring Bass Pro Shops.

For the full story, visit Salem News here.

Courtesy Photo / Patriots.com