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SAO PAULO – Graham Zusi was fresh off delivering the corner kick that led to the decisive goal in the United States' 2-1 victory over Ghana. It was a signature moment in the 27-year-old's career.

What followed was a euphoric postgame, complete with locker room celebration and a visit from Vice President Joe Biden.

View photos Graham Zusi celebrates after his team's 2-1 victory over Ghana. (AP) More

Drained, exhausted and facing a long flight back to Sao Paulo, Zusi showered, changed and headed to the team bus, but not before making sure he slipped a special chain around his neck. Hanging from it was two custom military dog tags.

[Related: Klinsmann refused to let team rest on its laurels after Ghana win]

On the front of both were an American flag and the words "2014 World Cup" and "Stay Fit! Stay Strong! Stay Resilient!"

The back of one featured an engraving with Zusi's soccer information, name, position on the men's national team, hometown, pro team. The back of the other was information from the solider who gave it to him at a ceremony in Jacksonville, Fla., just days before the Americans left for the World Cup. It contained the standard and essential information engraved on all dog tags in case identification is ever needed:

Joseph Edu

Sgt. First Class

U.S. Army

Orlando, Fla.

O Positive

Christian











"Cool guy. Just a really cool guy," Zusi said of Edu. "We're both from Orlando. I'm honored to get to wear this."

He said he wouldn't have wanted to walk out of the stadium any other way than with the tags proudly around his neck for all to see.

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