WASHINGTON (Army News Service, June 26, 2015) -- Batter up! The Washington Nationals Major League Baseball team stepped up to the plate for Army Day, June 25. The team honored Soldiers during their game against the Atlanta Braves.
Sgt. Maj. of the Army Daniel A. Dailey threw out the ceremonial first pitch. Next on the green, 12 Army children were accompanied around the bases by Nationals players. Waving and high-fiving, Screech, the Nationals' mascot, donned Army fatigues to join in the fun.
"I'm so thankful to represent our nation's team of 1.3 million Soldiers and Families, who are serving in 140-plus countries across the globe," Dailey said. "It was a thrill and honor to be part of the American tradition of baseball and represent America's Army in National's stadium."
Lt. Gen. Joseph Anderson, deputy chief of staff, Army G-3/5/7, delivered the game ball.
"Events like Army Day at Nationals Park are a wonderful opportunity to showcase the Army's greatest asset, the American Soldier," Anderson said. "The support of the Washington Nationals and the American public reminds us of why we do what we do and strengthens the bond between our citizens and our Soldiers."
Gathered near home plate before Family and friends, fans and athletes, nine Soldiers reenlisted and swore their continued commitment to the force. Maj. Gen. Gary H. Cheek, assistant deputy chief of staff, Army G-3/5/7, administered the oath. Soldiers were escorted on and off the field by 75 members of the 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard.) The U.S. Army Fife and Drum Corps provided music for the event.
Sgt. Michael Goude, 704th Military Intelligence Unit, Fort Meade, Maryland, said it was gratifying to take the oath in front of thousands.
"It's nice to know that since I serve the people of the U.S., that I can reaffirm in front of them my commitment to the Army and government. It makes me very proud of what I do," Goude said.
Retention of valued service members through reenlistment ceremonies is important to all branches of the military.
National Guardsman Sgt. Kimberly Hall, a member of the Forward Support Company, 276th Engineer Battalion, Petersburg, Virginia, plans to make the Army a career. A reenlistment is one more step in the right direction.
"It's an incredible feeling to know the populace is still behind us," she said of the support from the stands. "I feel like I can contribute to something for a greater cause than just for myself."
Also joining the pre-game festivities was Col. Adam Rocke from the Soldier for Life program. Soldier for Life focuses on connecting Soldiers, veterans and Families with education, employment, health resources and opportunities throughout their military careers.
The game ended 7-0 in favor of the Nationals, while the Army found itself up by nine Soldiers committed to serving their country.
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