Military Appreciation Night at Gold Sox game

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Robert M.Trujillo
  • 9th RW Public Affairs
BEALE AIR FORCE BASE, Calif., --  More than 75 Airmen participated in the opening ceremonies of a Marysville Gold Sox baseball game at Appeal-Democrat Park, Marysville Calif., July 29.

The Military Appreciation Night honored servicemembers and veterans with Beale Airmen unfurling a large American flag in center field during the national anthem.

"This is another example of the great relationship Beale Airmen have with the local community," said Col. Phil Stewart, 9th Reconnaissance Wing commander, who attended the game with his daughter. "It's a great event and it means a lot, especially for the families."

All branches of the military were represented during the opening ceremonies to include a U.S. Marine Corps color guard from Sacramento.

"Anytime there's an opportunity to honor the military and veterans we try to be there, to show them they are not forgotten," said Marine Corps First Sgt. Carlos Ruiz, color guard leader. "We are honored to represent the Marine Corps at this event."

The Gold Sox players also paid tribute to the military by sporting camouflage-styled jerseys in their 7-0 victory over the Nor Cal Long Horns in the military-themed game.

"We appreciate everything that our armed services do for us," said Jack Johnson, Gold Sox manager. "It's an honor to have them on the field and in the ball park."

Many of the Airmen left the game with a greater sense of duty and pride.

"I was very proud to be a part of something like this, it was awesome," said Staff Sgt. William Proffitt, 9th Communication Squadron network manager and event participant. "It was great to see all the members of Team Beale come together."