FLOWERY BRANCH – Falcons coach Dan Quinn, 18 players and several cheerleaders visited the troops at Fort Gordon on Thursday.

The team also honored local troops during an exclusive lunch with 20 active-duty, reserve and National Guard soldiers selected by Fort Gordon. Later, the Falcons held a pep rally, signed autographs and took pictures, according to the Augusta Chronicle.

Niko Shelton, a Navy cryptology technician who was relocated to Fort Gordon in December with the creation of new cyber missions, said the gratitude was all on the soldier's end, especially for those who experienced the headaches of a permanent change of station.

"I just appreciate this opportunity as a military member, Falcons fan and Georgia native," said Shelton, of Camilla, Ga., before snapping a photo with Quinn in a new Falcons cap.

CLICK HERE FOR LATEST VIDEO: D. Led: Dante Fowler Jr. Fits Falcons