GROTON, Conn. - The stands were packed as military members, past and present, and their families gathered to enjoy a free baseball game. The Connecticut Defenders held their annual Military Appreciation Day at Dodd Stadium on July 25.
The night warmed up with an opening ceremony complete with the colors being paraded by members of the Navy, Army, Marines, and Coast Guard, and the National Ensign presented by a group of Submarine School Silver Dolphins. Following the opening ceremony, members of the motorcycle club, the Patriot Guard Riders, circled the field to show their respect for the troops.
Fans were also joined by Richard Blumenthal, Connecticut Attorney General and former Marine, as well as other state and local officials and senior military members, including Rear Admiral Paul Bushong, Commander Submarine Group Two and Captain Marc Denno, Naval Submarine Base New London (SUBASE) Commanding officer. Another highlight was the stirring performance of the Star Spangled Banner sung by Alvin O'Connor of the Veterans Affairs in Rocky Hill, a veteran of the Vietnam War.
The game commenced with Electronics Technician First Class (SS) Brian Pelter, the USS Toledo's 2008 Sailor of the Year, showing off his pitching skills by throwing the first pitch.
Prior to the game, military fans were given gifts and snacks at the front gate. During the game they even had the chance to win iPods and iPhones. After the game, they were treated to a fireworks display. Fittingly, the Defenders defeated the New Britain Rock Cats 1-0, truly one for the troops.