SYRACUSE, N.Y. -- Nearly 250 Fort Drum Soldiers attended the Syracuse University versus Pittsburgh University basketball game for free Saturday in the Carrier Dome.
The university is a strong supporter of the U.S. Army, specifically the 10th Mountain Division (LI), and wanted to show its support by giving the Fort Drum Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation 250 free tickets.
"Our thoughts and prayers go with the group as they face the next challenge overseas," said Pete Moore, Syracuse University's director for athletic communications. "We are forever indebted to each one for their service."
This invitation and show of support serves as a testament to the strong relationship the 10th Mountain Division and Fort Drum has with supporters in the community.
The Soldiers who attended the game appreciated the gesture.
"Those tickets could have easily been sold, but instead they were given to us," said Command Sgt. Maj. James Manning, senior enlisted adviser for 2nd Battalion, 22nd Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team.
The Soldiers in attendance, whether SU fans or not, were thoroughly entertained from start to finish of the fast-paced, high-stakes game.
"I enjoyed the game, but what made it better was that it was actually my son's first time attending a collegiate-level game," Manning said. "I enjoyed seeing my son's expressions as the crowd supported their team."
The undefeated Syracuse Orange, holding a record of 18-0 this year, defeated the Pittsburgh Panthers (16-2) with a final score of 59 to 54. Soldiers who were fans of the Orange could not have been more pleased with their team's performance.
"I'm a fan of Syracuse, but more so I am a fan of the ACC (Atlantic Coast Conference) because I'm a Virginia fan," Manning said. "But I'm glad they beat Pitt."
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