PRESIDIO OF MONTEREY, Calif. - Sailors from the Center for Information Dominance Detachment Monterey, here at the Presidio of Monterey, joined service members from throughout Northern California to support Operation Care and Comfort organizers in their effort to collect donations at the San Jose Sharks "Support Our Troops" hockey game at the HP Pavilion in downtown San Jose.
More than 100 military members and family members greeted Sharks fan as they entered the Pavilion, handing out military-themed rubber ducks to those who showed their support by donating cash or goods. According to OCC co-founder Julie DeMaria, more than $13,000 in donations and the equivalent of two trucks full of food and goods were collected to be used for holiday care packages that will be sent to troops serving overseas in Afghanistan and Iraq.
"Folks react well when they see military members in uniform," said DeMaria. "It reminds them that our troops are still here, fighting for them. Just to have troops at our events to greet folks and shakes hands is a great way to remind the public of the important work our troops are doing."
For the sailors it was an excellent opportunity to interact with the public and enjoy some hockey, while at the same time volunteering for a worthy cause.
For Seaman Kevin Arteaga, the best part of the night was the hockey.
"I am a huge hockey fan," Arteaga admits. "I had a great time. Getting to talk to all the people was really interesting, but my favorite part was the game itself. I felt real proud to represent the Navy, and people seemed to notice and appreciate what we were doing. It felt good."
Greg Kihn, former lead singer of the Greg Kihn Band and current morning radio host at 98.5 KFOX, sang the national anthem. According to DeMaria it is tradition for Kihn to do so at the OCC "Support our Troops" games as his way of showing his support.
Additionally, one lucky Sailor, Petty Officer 1st Class Monique Johs from Alameda, ceremoniously rode the Zamboni during the first-period break.
Then, to make the night fully complete, the Sharks left with a hometown win as they defeated the Avalanche 3-1.
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