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Citizen Men's Eco-Drive Promaster Air Nighthawk Pilot Watch in Stainless Steel with Olive Green Leather Strap, Black Dial, 42mm (Model: BJ7138-04E)

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Citizen Men's Eco-Drive Promaster Air Nighthawk Pilot Watch in Stainless Steel with Olive Green Leather Strap, Black Dial, 42mm (Model: BJ7138-04E)

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About this item.

  • Modern, pilot-inspired Promaster timepieces equipped for professional use to discover the world from high above.
  • Dual Time (Second Time Zone), Date
  • Silver-Tone Stainless Steel Case
  • Luminous Hands and Markers and Mineral Crystal
  • 200 Meters Water Resistant and 5 Year Limited Warranty
  • Featuring our Eco-Drive technology – powered by light, any light. Never needs a battery

Additional Information

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Returnable Yes
Resolutions Eligible for refund or replacement
Return Window 30 days from delivery
Refund Timelines Typically, an advance refund will be issued within 24 hours of a drop-off or pick-up. For returns that require physical verification, refund issuance may take up to 30 days after drop-off or pick up. Where an advance refund is issued, we will re-charge your payment method if we do not receive the correct item in original condition. See details .
Late fee A late fee of 20% of the item price will apply if you complete the drop off or pick up after the ‘Return By Date’.
Restocking fee A restocking fee may apply if the item is not returned in original condition and original packaging, or is damaged or missing parts for reasons not due to Amazon or seller error. See details .

Return instructions

Item must be in original condition and packaging along with tag, accessories, manuals, and inserts. Unlock any electronic device, delete your account and remove all personal information.

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2 Year Watch Protection Plan

  • No Additional Cost: You pay nothing for repairs – parts, labor, and shipping included.
  • Coverage: Plan starts on the date of purchase. Covers broken watchband, movement failures, cracked crystal, bezel damage and more. Includes a 1-time refurbishment.
  • Easy Claims Process: File a claim anytime online or by phone. Most claims approved within minutes. If we can’t repair it, we’ll send you an Amazon e-gift card for the purchase price of your covered product or replace it.
  • Product Eligibility: Plan must be purchased with a product or within 30 days of the product purchase. Pre-existing conditions are not covered.
  • Terms & Details: More information about this protection plan is available within the “Product guides and documents” section. Simply click “User Guide” for more info. Terms & Conditions will be available in Your Orders on Amazon. Asurion will also email your plan confirmation with Terms & Conditions to the address associated with your Amazon account within 24 hours of purchase.

3 Year Watch Protection Plan

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  • Past and future purchases covered. 30 days after you are enrolled, all eligible past purchases (up to 1 year prior to enrollment) and future eligible purchases made on Amazon will be covered by your plan as long as you are enrolled.
  • Fast, easy claims. Frustration-free claims, with most filed in minutes. We will fix it, replace it, or reimburse you with an Amazon e-gift card for the purchase price of your product (excluding tax). File at Asurion.com/amazon.
  • No hidden fees. For just $16.99 a month + tax you’re covered for up to $5,000 in claims per 12-month period. *THIS PROGRAM IS MONTH-TO-MONTH AND WILL CONTINUE UNTIL CANCELED* Coverage for all products ends 30 days after the plan is canceled. Cancel any time.

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Citizen Men's Eco-Drive Promaster Air Nighthawk Pilot Watch in Stainless Steel with Olive Green Leather Strap, Black Dial, 42

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PRODUCT CERTIFICATION (1)

Leather Working Group

Leather Working Group certification promotes more-responsible leather production and is committed to driving positive environmental change.

Citizen Men's Eco-Drive Sport Casual Brycen Chronograph Watch, Super Titanium™, Perpetual Calendar, Tachymeter 12/24 Hour Tim

From the manufacturer

Promaster Air

AN ASPIRATIONAL ADVENTURE

Promaster air.

Embodying the spirit of adventure in the air, on land or at sea, Promaster watches live up to the values of functionality, durability, and safety while respecting the planet it’s designed to explore.

Promaster Air

Luminous Hands and Markers

Date Calendar Window

Two-Tone Stainless Steel Case

with a Green Leather Strap

Dual Time; 12/24 Hour

200M Water Resistance

THE DETAILS

Model Number BJ7138-04E
Collection Promaster Air- Nighthawk
Eco-Drive Yes
Base Movement B877
Clasp Type Buckle
Dial Color Black
Case Material Stainless Steel
Case Color Two-Tone
Case Shape Round
Case Width 42mm
Case Length 42mm
Band Type Strap
Band Color Green
Band Material Leather
Crystal Material Mineral Crystal
Water Resistance 0200M

OWN YOUR STYLE- DISCOVER MORE

PROMASTER

CITIZEN PARTNERSHIPS

Disney

Disney Alliance

The official timepiece partner of Disney parks, runDisney sponsorship, events and more.

ECO-DRIVE

Everybody Solar

Everybody Solar, works to protect the environment and strengthen U.S. communities through solar-energy projects.

eco-drive

American Forests

American Forests is a pathfinder for creating healthy forests from coast to coast, leading the way for creating healthy and resilient forests.

ECODRIVE

Save the Beyond

Global adventurers on the front lines of the environmental battle share their stories in an effort to shine a light on destruction of the environment.

How long is the coverage on my Citizen Watch?

Your Citizen Watch comes with a five-year, limited coverage. When you register your watch online or through our My Citizen App, you will receive an additional coverage year free, for a total of six years coverage.

How do I set my watch?

If you know your model number, go to our brand website and search or browse for your model. When you're on the product page, the setting instructions are listed at the bottom of the "features" section.

How do I get a manual for my watch?

Setting instructions can be accessed through our website and our My Citizen App (available for iOS and Android). To obtain the instructions specific to your watch, you will need to provide the Movement Caliber Number on your watch's caseback.

Can I buy a replacement strap or links for my watch?

Straps, bracelets and links may be available for certain Citizen watch models. To find out if a replacement strap or part is available for your Citizen Watch, please visit our new self-service portal.

Product guides and documents

Product description.

From the olive green leather strap inspired by military uniforms to the 42mm stainless steel case with black dial that evokes a cockpit at night, the Promaster Nighthawk from Citizen is a timepiece designed to capture the sleek, sophisticated lines of a stealth helicopter. Be ready for whatever adventure is next with advanced features such as a slide rule bezel and Eco-Drive technology, powered by light, that will ensure it is always fueled up and ready to fly, along with dual time zones, the current date and a chronograph.

Product specifications

Watch information.

Brand, Seller, or Collection Name Citizen
Model number BJ7138-04E
Part Number BJ7138-04E
Item Shape Round
Dial window material type Mineral
Display Type Analog
Clasp Buckle
Case material Stainless Steel
Case diameter 42 millimeters
Case Thickness 13 millimeters
Band Material Leather
Band size Mens Standard
Band width 22 millimeters
Band Color Green
Dial color Black
Bezel material Stainless Steel
Bezel function Stationary
Calendar Date
Special features Second Hand, Dual Time (Second Time Zone), Date
Item weight 2.5 ounces
Movement Eco-Drive
Water resistant depth 200 Meters
Warranty Manufacturer’s warranty can be requested from customer service. to make a request to customer service.

Videos for this product

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Under The Radar : Citizen Nighthawk 2.0 Review

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Eco-Drive Technology: How it Works

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Looking for specific info, product details.

  • Package Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 5.24 x 5.2 x 4.57 inches; 2.5 ounces
  • Item model number ‏ : ‎ BJ7138-04E
  • Department ‏ : ‎ mens
  • Batteries ‏ : ‎ 1 Lithium Metal batteries required. (included)
  • Date First Available ‏ : ‎ November 15, 2023
  • Manufacturer ‏ : ‎ Citizen
  • ASIN ‏ : ‎ B08F9C324D
  • Country of Origin ‏ : ‎ Japan
  • #3,739 in Men's Wrist Watches

Customer reviews

Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.

To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.

Customers say

Customers like the readability, appearance, quality and markings of the watch. They mention that it's very easy to read, the time is easy to tell and that the glow is pretty good in the dark.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

Customers find the watch very easy to read. They also mention that the large, bright numbers make it easy to see in the daylight and in the dark. Customers also say the watch is durable and easy to use.

"...people say its hard to read but the large bright numbers make it very easy to read ...." Read more

"...luminous markings and watch hands work pretty well and it's easy to read in dark rooms too. The slide rule is is a cool feature that I love." Read more

"Citizen builds amazing watches that are durable, east to read and attractive...." Read more

"... Easy to read in the daylight and the glow is pretty good in the dark. I'm very happy with the watch." Read more

Customers are satisfied with the appearance of the watch. They mention that it is a nice looking watch and they like the look and feel of it.

"I love the look of the watch . The time is easy to read...." Read more

"Citizen builds amazing watches that are durable, east to read and attractive ...." Read more

"...It is a very handsome timepiece ...." Read more

"...Otherwise, it is a nice looking watch ." Read more

Customers are satisfied with the quality of the watch. They mention that it is a great and easy to use product. Some customers also mention that the dial is good quality.

"Writing this after wearing the watch for couple months. The watch is absolutely stellar ...." Read more

"... All other features are absolutely quality , just like the rest of the Promaster series, but I will be considering replacing the slide rule crown to..." Read more

"Probably the dial is good quality but the belt itself looks very cheap and not worth the money." Read more

" Great and easy to use quality watch. Would recommend." Read more

Customers find the markings on the watch easy to read. They also say the luminous markings and watch hands work pretty.

"...Another plus is that the watch also glows in dark which makes it easier in the night if you are camping...." Read more

"I love the look of the watch. The time is easy to read. The luminous markings and watch hands work pretty well and it's easy to read in dark rooms..." Read more

"...Easy to read in the daylight and the glow is pretty good in the dark . I'm very happy with the watch." Read more

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citizen yacht watch

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Product Key Features

  • Bezel Color Gold, Silver, Black, Blue
  • Max Wrist Size 8.26 - 8.5 in
  • Indices No Hour Marks, Arabic Numerals, Arrow Markers, Round Indexes
  • Caseback Screwback
  • Lug Width 20 mm
  • Bezel Type Bidirectional Rotating, 24-Hour
  • Case Size 40 mm
  • Case Material Crystal, Stainless Steel
  • Water Resistance 100 m (10 ATM)
  • Band Color Gold, Black, Gray, Silver
  • Dial Color Black, White, Multicolor, Green
  • Band Width 18 mm
  • Closure Buckle
  • Band/Strap One-Piece Strap
  • Case Thickness 10 mm
  • Case Color Silver
  • Watch Shape Round
  • Style Pilot/Aviator, Sport, Classic, Casual, Dress/Formal, Diver, Luxury, Military
  • Features Month Indicator, Chronograph, Luminous Dial, Luminous Hands, Alarm, Date Indicator, Acrylic Crystal, Central Second, Limited Edition, Mineral Crystal, Annual Calendar, Day Indicator, Water-Resistant, Rotating Bezel, Day/Date, 12-Hour Dial, Backlight, Perpetual Calendar, Luminous Indexes, Multifunction, Timer, 24-Hour Dial, LCD Display
  • Movement Quartz
  • Type Wristwatch
  • Band Material Metal, Stainless Steel, Nylon, Resin, Plastic, Rubber, Leather
  • Model Citizen Vintage
  • Case Finish Polished
  • Display Analog & Digital

Citizen quietly launches new Forza collection with dials straight out of the 70s

Citizen watches launches new forza collection.

Citizen watches Forza collection

Citizen Watches is building on its series of integrated bracelet watches with the new Forza line, which gets its name from the Italian word for “strength.” This comes hot off the heels of the previous Citizen watches Tsuyoga line, which means “strength” in Japanese (we see what they did there.)

Citizen watches: Forza Collection

How much are these new citizen watches.

The new Citizen watches Forza collection has three variants: the Forza Chrono, the Forza Three-Hand, and the Forza Mechanical. Each watch from the Citizen Forza line is made with the brand’s exclusive Super Titanium, which has certainly become more popular this year, even to the point where it’s considered a luxury alternative to stainless steel. It’s more gray than steel and is famous for its scratch resistance, being lightweight, and exceptionally shiny finish. Two of the new Forza models feature solar-powered Eco-Drive quartz movements, while the third is powered by an automatic caliber.

The 3 new Citizen Forza watches all throw it back to the 70s with angular cases, and round bezels, a la “Jaws” and “Apocalypse Now.” Each of these Citizen watches is made with Duratect surface-hardening technology to make the watches incredibly durable while the tapered bracelets feature Y-shaped links and folding clasps. Additionally, they come with sapphire crystal, luminous hands, and indices as well as 100-meter water resistance.

The Forza Chrono

Despite trends going toward smaller watch dials, Citizen watches added the Forzo Chrono to their collection, which is the largest model in the series at 42.5mm in diameter and 11.5mm in thickness. Of course, some people simply have their taste and don’t really care about trends, and we say more power to them. It comes in three colors: white, light blue, and salmon with a black tachymeter ring on the edge giving a panda effect that is certainly a love-it-or-hate-it aesthetic, there are no gray areas. The Forza Chrono is powered by the Eco-Drive Caliber B620 and can run up to 9 months on a full charge.

The Forza Three-Hand

This watch comes in at a much smaller 39mm in diameter (for those who stick to the trends like their life depends on it) and is 10mm thick. The Forza Three-Hand is powered by the solar-driven Eco-Drive Caliber J800 and also has a 9-month power reserve.

The Forza Mechanical

The Forza Mechanical rounds out the collection in white, blue, or light blue options, while the blue dial is the only one with a black minute track on the edge. The titanium case is 40.5mm in diameter and 11mm thick and features a transparent caseback. Inside, the Forza Mechanical features the Caliber 8213 automatic movement, which comes with a 45-hour power reserve and 21 jewels.

The Forza Chrono watches are available for $625, as well as the Forza Mechanical watches, while the Forza Three-Hand models are slightly cheaper at $495. You can get more information about the Forza collection at the official Citizen Watches website.

Editors’ Recommendations

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  • You’ll love Citizen’s new limited edition watches for its 100th anniversary
  • The new Citizen Promaster Geo Trekker watch is an absolute beast
  • New dial colors, slimmer design for IWC’s Portugieser watches
  • NORQAIN’s new Freedom Collection watches will have you craving a Tuscan vacation

Sarah Veldman

Citizen's new watch collection, which features exquisite dials crafted from Japanese paper, is inspired by the serene feeling of nature. Putting on one of these watches will make you feel like you just stepped into a Japanese garden and need 10 minutes to meditate.

The focal point of the Iconic Nature Collection is the intricate dial designs inspired by elements of nature, such as flowers that have long served as inspiration and motifs in art and literature. Citizen watches Iconic Nature Collection:  AQ4106-00W and AQ4100-22W

Amid the splendor and prestige of the 96th Academy Awards, hosted at the iconic Dolby Theater in Los Angeles, a new watch was discreetly added to the Rolex Day Date collection. The Oscars, renowned for their grandeur, never fail to deliver a spectacle of epic proportions, and this year was no different, with a lineup of films that captivated audiences worldwide (Oppenheimer, anyone?) as well as a slew of high-end watches. A new Rolex Day Date just dropped...quietly

Hidden within the exclusive confines of the Rolex Greenroom, reserved for the privileged winners of Academy Awards, lies a solitary showcase set side just for Rolex watches. Tucked away at the far end of the spacious chamber, embedded within the rear wall, this display holds the only Rolex timepiece in the entire lounge.

If you’ve been craving something more edgy and retro for your spring and summer wardrobe, look no further because Gap has brought forth the best collaboration yet. Recently, the American company announced its collaboration with the London-based clothing label, Palace, for a unique skater-style collection that will give you plenty of nostalgic vibes for the upcoming seasons. Along with a kids' line, this adult collection will give you everything you would expect of a ‘90s skater line. Everything from windbreakers to cargo pants is included in this 55-item collection, and it will have you rethinking your entire wardrobe.  The PALACE GAP collection

On their own, Gap and Palace have carved out their unique branding and clientele. The American brand is known for its nostalgic yet simple silhouettes, including its iconic polos and Gap branding. On the other hand, Palace has become a staple in UK streetwear with its edgy and raw apparel that appeals to those looking to express their unique style. While on the surface, this collaboration seems random, it’s an important step for expanding both their audiences and customers. 

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SPECIAL OFFER

July 4th savings event save 25% off select red, white and blue watches*.

Prices as shown; no code needed.

*25% off MSRP discount automatically applied, as shown on product pages of applicable models; no code needed. Exclusions: New Arrivals, Limited Editions, Attesa Collection, Eco-Drive One Collection, Series8 Collection, The Citizen Collection, Disney 100 Boxed Sets, CZ Smart Smartwatches, preorder, and products not in stock. Valid on Citizenwatch.com only, now through 7/5/24 11:59pm PDT. Not valid at department, specialty, or company-owned stores, where products and promotions may vary/differ. Cannot be combined with other offers or discounts, or applied to previous purchases. We reserve the right to cancel this promotion at any time.

Pricing and product assortment on Citizenwatch.com may vary from retail, department, or specialty stores.

ENJOY 20% OFF* MEN'S & WOMEN'S WATCHES

20% off MSRP is automatically reflected in pricing on the product page.

*Limited exclusions; New Arrivals, Limited Editions, Attesa Collection, Eco-Drive One Collection, Series 8 Collection, The Citizen Collection, and Disney 100 Boxed Sets, are not eligible for discounts. CZ Smart excluded, as promotions and discounts differ for CZ Smart Touchscreen and Hybrid Smartwatches.

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Enjoy free UPS shipping within the U.S. and free returns. Please allow up to two business days for order processing. Orders over $850 will ship signature required.

We stand by the quality and craftsmanship of our products with our 30-day money-back guarantee, and a 5-year limited warranty.

COMPLIMENTARY WATCH SIZING

We are also pleased to offer complimentary watch bracelet sizing services with your Citizenwatch.com purchase; please allow an extra 1-2 business days for order processing, prior to shipping, as sizing occurs on demand by one of our expert technicians.

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Shop the Forza collection watches. Banner image featuring models CA4610-85A, NJ0180-80M and AW0130-85L

Integrated Super Titanium™ Series

Forza Collection

In pursuit of style and innovation, the Forza collection sets a new standard in boundary-pushing titanium timepieces. Crafted with our proprietary Super Titanium™, these watches offer superior strength and durability in Eco-Drive and mechanical styles.

  • New Refine by Exclusivity: New
  • Exclusive Refine by Exclusivity: Exclusive
  • Blue Refine by Color: Blue
  • Silver Refine by Color: Silver
  • 0100M Refine by Water Resistance: 0100M
  • Bracelet Refine by Strap Type: Bracelet
  • Large (37mm - 42mm) Refine by Case Size: Large (37mm - 42mm)
  • $300 - $599 Refine by Price: $300 - $599
  • $600 - $999 Refine by Price: $600 - $999

Forza Chrono

Building a purposeful, powerful, and sustainable future.

From the birth of its Eco-Drive light technology to today, Citizen looks for ways to support and celebrate the planet.

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The Virginian-Pilot

Sports | Football hall of famer Bruce Smith named…

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Sports | Football hall of famer Bruce Smith named Norfolk’s First Citizen

NFL legend Bruce Smith addresses those gathered for Monday evening's community meeting about voting rights in Virginia Beach.

Norfolk Mayor Kenny Alexander said former NFL football star Bruce Smith showed his true character one afternoon a few months ago when they were driving around the city in Smith’s car.

“It was just Bruce and me. We were looking for opportunities, places for Bruce to develop,” Alexander said.

When Smith saw a group of kids with football helmets along Brambleton Avenue asking for money, he stopped, got out of the car and took the coaches’ name and telephone number. And didn’t say another word to Alexander.

A week or so later, Alexander received a call from Smith. “I want to take you to a football game,” Smith said.

“At first, I thought, I’m going to an NFL game,” Alexander said. “Instead, he drives me to Lake Taylor High School and that team was playing and lo and behold, every player had brand-new cleats, jerseys and helmets because of Bruce.

“Bruce was smiling just like a kid at Christmas. That shows what a huge heart this man has.”

His big heart, and his love for his hometown, is why Smith received an unusual honor recently. Smith was named Norfolk’s First Citizen by the Norfolk Cosmopolitan Club, a 101-year-old philanthropic group that in the last century named 96 people the city’s First Citizen.

Before Smith, none had been a professional athlete.

The list of previous winners reads like a veritable who’s who of the city’s and region’s most influential political and business leaders, including Priority Automotive founder Dennis Ellmer, former Congressman G. William Whitehurst, former Norfolk Mayor Paul D. Fraim and local attorney and philanthropist Peter G. Decker Jr.

Rob McWilliams, who led the Cosmopolitan Club selection committee, said his group did not take lightly deviating from the norm. But Smith, a 60-year-old Booker T. Washington High School and Virginia Tech graduate, fit the mold, he said.

“He was born and raised in Norfolk,” he said. “Then he spent 19 years in pro football.

“So many great athletes from our area have done well and never returned. They’ve gone to New York or some other place to do business.

“Well, Bruce came back. He came back to Norfolk, to Hampton Roads, to try to do business and try to build a better community.

“He has strong Norfolk connections and has been an outstanding role model. He’s worked hard trying to help young people. And he loves Norfolk. Bruce would do whatever he can to help Norfolk.

“The more we looked at Bruce, the more we realized that he more than deserved this award.”

Buffalo Bills legend and NFL Hall of Fame member Bruce Smith addresses the crowd before an NFL football game, Monday, Sept. 19, 2022, in Orchard Park, NY. (AP Photo/Matt Durisko)

While he was still sacking quarterbacks for the Buffalo Bills, Smith founded Bruce Smith Enterprises in Virginia Beach. In the two decades since he retired, he’s helped build dozens of projects across the Mid-Atlantic, including hotels, apartments or entertainment centers in Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Blacksburg and the Washington-Baltimore area.

He has funded scholarships at Booker T. Washington, mentored youth groups, worked to promote Operation Smile and, thanks to Decker’s prodding, helped raise money for the St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee.

He’s also been a sometimes-controversial advocate for social change. He was raised in Ghent and, like many other African-American families living there in what was then a lower-income, blue-collar community, the Smith family was forced to move to make way for redevelopment.

Ghent is now an upscale, largely white community.

America was a much different place half a century ago and, Smith hopes, he’s played a small role in opening up opportunities for minority developers and investors.

He has said several projects that he wanted to develop in Virginia Beach were unjustly denied to him and others and was not shy about saying so.

Now, he says, Virginia Beach is open to business for everyone.

Virginia Beach Mayor Robert M. “Bobby” Dyer was among those on hand at the Norfolk Yacht and Country Club to fete Smith as First Citizen.

“This is something I would not have wanted to miss,” Dyer said.

Smith said “so many of my friends have said to me, why don’t you just enjoy your best life and not worry about all of that stuff? But I’m a firm believer that God places people in your life that allow you to grow and become the best you could possibly be and do goodwill in his service and his name.

“I feel like I was called to be a voice for voices that weren’t being heard.”

FILE - IN this Jan. 30, 1994 file photo, Buffalo Bills' Bruce Smith holds up his injured hand during the third quarter of Super Bowl XXVIII against the Dallas Cowboys in Atlanta. Smith is happy seeing the Buffalo Bills finally back in the AFC championship game for the first time in 27 years. What excites him more is a belief the team seems poised for long-term success in drawing comparisons of Buffalo's team in 1988, which would eventually go on to make, and lose, four straight Super Bowl appearances starting in '91. (AP Photo /John J. Gaps III, File)

Interviewed a few days after receiving the award at his Virginia Beach home, he simply pointed to his back yard when asked why he moved back to Hampton Roads. He has a large home on Lynnhaven Inlet with a breathtaking view of the inlet all the way to the Lesner Bridge.

“I could sit in here for, I mean, for hours, and enjoy this view,” he said. “Occasionally I’ll see an eagle fly by and swim down and scoop a fish up and eat him right on my pier.

“Sometimes we’ll drop the jet skis in the water and go down to Chick’s Beach to eat shrimp.

“So many people around the country don’t appreciate what we have here. You’re not gonna get this in Chicago or Atlanta.”

Recently, Smith announced the biggest development deal of his career. Bruce Smith Enterprises and the Cordish Companies recently got the nod from Petersburg to build a $1.4 billion development that will be anchored by a casino and a luxury hotel.

Voters must approve a referendum in November for the project to proceed.

The project promises to be a lifeline for Petersburg, one of the Commonwealth’s most impoverished cities, located about 25 miles south of Richmond.

The project would begin next year with the construction of a temporary casino and a hotel. Eventually, it is scheduled to include a 3,000-seat indoor entertainment venue, 400,000 square feet of casino, hotel and dining space. There will be apartments, restaurants, including several set aside for existing Petersburg restaurants to relocate.

Most important of all, Smith said, the average salary will be $70,000 for the 7,500 new jobs expected to be created.

Smith has put together an investment group of largely African-American business people who will own 50% of the project.

“This will be a life-altering project for the city of Petersburg,” he said. “It’s going to provide so many good-paying jobs.

“Casinos are projects that come around once in a lifetime. And they can change a community. Who would have thought that Petersburg would become a destination city? And that’s exactly what it will become.”

Smith has yet to build a signature project in Norfolk, but hopes to break ground next year on a 287-unit apartment building to be known as 78 at St. Paul’s — 78 is a nod to his jersey number, which was retired by the Bills.

It would be built across St. Paul’s Boulevard from Scope and would rise seven stories in an area where Norfolk and the Norfolk Redevelopment and Housing Authority have torn down public housing.

Smith’s apartments would add to the hundreds of apartments under construction or already occupied. About 20% of his apartments would be available for former public housing residents at below-market rates.

A 500-space city-owned garage that will be a part of the project will provide 100 spaces for the Queen Street Baptist Church, where Smith attended services as a youngster with his parents.

Family members, including his wife, Carmen, and son, Alston; his former Booker T. Washington basketball coach Zeke Avery, business partner Dan Hoffler and officials from Queen Street were at the Norfolk Yacht and Country Club, as Alexander put the First Citizen medal around his neck.

Smith walked to the podium on crutches — his 13th and most recent surgery was for a knee replacement just a few days earlier — but stood without aid at the podium as he choked back tears to thank everyone who ever gave him a helping hand.

He paid particular homage to Cal Davidson, the late Booker T. Washington football coach who persuaded Smith to try football.

“I look around this room and see so many people, so many of you, who helped me at a key moment in my life,” he said.

Ellmer, the Priority Automotive founder, who has become close with Smith, said that’s likely because they saw what Ellmer sees in him — a man who hasn’t let success go to his head.

“My son and I went to a Bills game with Bruce, and while I enjoyed the game, the thing I will most remember is how Bruce interacted with the fans,” Ellmer said.

“Bruce is still a legend there. The fans were all over him. I’m sure that gets old after a while. But Bruce was so accommodating, so good to everyone. He shook every hand, took every selfie people asked for. He didn’t turn anyone away.”

Nor, when he became rich and famous in the NFL, did he forget his roots.

“Why did the community embrace me like it did?” he said during his acceptance speech.

“Why did so many people work to keep me out of harm’s way? Why did so many school teachers see more in me than I saw in myself?

“Of course I came back to Norfolk. This is my home. It will always be my home.”

A former Virginian-Pilot and Daily Press sports writer, Minium wrote his first story about Bruce Smith 43 years ago when Smith was a 17-year-old senior at Booker T. Washington High School. Minium is senior executive writer at Old Dominion University. Contact him at [email protected]

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