Jeffrey Fleming, a.k.a. “Da FRO,” is the overall winner of the 2012 NFL Challenge with a final score of 3,048 points.  Fleming, a Family Readiness Officer (hence “Da FRO”) assigned to the Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron on MCAS Iwakuni, Japan, had the highest score of 1,940 players to claim the top $500 prize in the 11^th Annual NFL Challenge.

“I had a great time this year,” remarked Mr. Fleming when informed he had won.  “This was actually the first year that I didn’t miss the deadline for making my weekly picks or putting in the weekly code!”  Fleming has been playing the NFL Challenge annually since 2005 and appreciates the contest’s tribute to a true American hero – Pat Tillman.  “I would like to sincerely thank Oconus.com and the Stars & Stripes for their continuous commitment to honoring a true American Hero, Pat Tillman.  Also, a special thanks to Pat Tillman's family and friends for creating the Pat Tillman Foundation to honor his legacy, leadership, and military service.”

Fleming ended up winning the contest by six points, a slim final margin.  In second place with 3,042 points was Chris Gents, a.k.a. “nugsfan” from Heidelberg, Germany.   “I started playing when I was stationed in Schwetzingen working for 1st Perscom as a Soldier in 2005,” stated Gents.  “I am since retired and work for the Europe and Africa Casualty Office in Heidelberg, Germany.   I am originally from Sterling, Colorado and am a Huge Denver Bronco's fan.  I am overseas with my wife Eleni and daughters Tara, Kristine, Rebekah and Stella, who stay up watching the Broncos with me!”  Gentz won $300 from Oconus.com for his second place finish.

Rounding out the top three scores with 3,034 points was Martin Gonzalez, a.k.a. “G-MAN DAMAN” from Columbia, South Carolina.  “I was born in Puerto Rico, joined the Army in 1980 and retired from the military in 2004. I was a Medical Specialist/Combat Medic and worked in the medical field the entire 24 years.   My hobbies are playing dominoes, outdoor sports, hiking and camping. I also love a good challenge!”  Gonzalez earned $200 for his 3^rd place finish.

The Army led all services again with 839 players, followed by the Air Force with 307 players.  The Navy and Marine Corps accounted for 183 players.  The remaining players were a mix of civil service employees, veterans and spouses. 

Enlisted players numbered 765 players while there were 516 civil service and 280 officers who signed up.  The remaining contestants were family members and veterans.

The USA dominated the geographic numbers with over 1,000 players.  Europe accounted for 480 players, while Asia had 250 contestants and the Middle East and other areas rounded out the total field.  Many players started playing the NFL Challenge while stationed overseas and have continued to play after returning stateside.

The 2013 contest will begin taking sign-ups in August of 2013, and this year’s champ has dropped the challenge flag to the rest of the field.  “I love to compete, and like Pat Tillman, this win is special and a reflection of my unwavering passion to do my best.  Good Luck to all next season and I look forward to being the 1st ever NFL Challenge player to repeat as Champion!”