The (real) secretary of defense called U.S. goalkeeper Tim Howard to congratulate him on his heroic performance during Tuesday's World Cup match against Belgium.
Howard's record-breaking 16 saves during the 2-1 loss drew plenty of social media attention, sparking dozens of memes -- including some Photoshopping Howard's face onto the real body of Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel.
A real fan even edited the "U.S. Secretary of Defense" page on Wikipedia with Howard's picture and information.
After all the attention Howard received, Hagel – holding a soccer ball – called Howard to thank him for defending the U.S. Of course, there is evidence of the call on Twitter.
From 1 SecDef to another: Hagel calls @timhowardgk to say thanks for defending USA. We (USA) are proud of @ussoccer! pic.twitter.com/M8nsYdlXFn — U.S. Dept of Defense (@DeptofDefense) July 2, 2014
President Barack Obama also gave Howard a call Wednesday.
U.S. & World
Pres Obama talks w USA soccer goalie Tim Howard and team captain Clint Dempsey pic.twitter.com/415DqvQvBp — petesouza (@petesouza) July 2, 2014