Dbacks host military appreciation day

  • Published
  • By 1st Lt. Phil Ventura
  • 56th Fighter Wing Safety Office
LUKE AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz. --  Hundreds of Thunderbolts let the Arizona Diamondbacks take them out to a ball game July 23 as part of the park's "Military Appreciation Day."

Events included a chance for families to meet with Diamondback player Tony Clark, a ceremony announcing the construction of a youth ball field at Luke, free camouflage hats and military involvement in activities throughout the game.

"What a great opportunity for our folks to feel warmth from the community," said Col. Tom Jones, 56th Fighter Wing commander. "The support for the military and Luke is apparent."

The Diamondbacks were more than happy to accommodate their uniformed guests. Many of the servicemembers who were on the field prior to the game were given autographed baseballs by Luis Gonzalez. Other players just stopped to say, "Thanks."

"It's the least we can do," said Karen Conway, Arizona Diamondbacks director of community affairs. "All these folks are serving everyday to ensure we can live in freedom and do things like play baseball."

Her sentiments were echoed by Mr. Clark, a self-described "Navy Brat," who met with families that currently have a loved one deployed.

"We appreciate your commitment to the military," Mr. Clark said. "It takes a family with a lot of love, strength and compassion to endure during a separation, and you should know that your sacrifice is not forgotten."

After speaking to the families, he answered questions, which ranged from his thoughts on living in Arizona to what it was like to play baseball for a living.

Mr. Clark helped arranged the event and gave the base 2,000 tickets for the game.

"The kids are very excited to be here today," said Kelly Bass, whose husband, Lt. Col. Eric Bass, 56th Mission Support Squadron commander, is deployed to Iraq.