JOINT BASE McGUIRE-DIX-LAKEHURST, N.J. -- Representatives for the Major League Baseball website www.mlb.com visited Army Support Activity-Dix April 23, to shoot interviews with Soldiers that will be used to promote online U.S. Army recruitment efforts.
"These guys (MLB) reach out to us and provide us additional advertising that we would otherwise have to pay for. The MLB is really reaching out and we really appreciate the support and added value in our marketing campaign," said Ken Walsh, the direct marketing manager at U.S. Army Assessions Command, Fort Knox, Ky.
The Army buys advertising space with the MLB promoting the "Army Strong" campaign and MLB chipped in to help the Army further by giving the Army $2.2 million, according to Walsh.
Aiding the MLB in their efforts is former MLB relief pitcher Jeff Nelson, who conducted the interviews with the Soldiers. He asked the troops about places they've been stationed and what inspired them to join the military. He also questioned the Soldiers on the biggest challenges they've faced in the Army, what types of opportunities the Army has afforded them, and if they would recommend joining the service to someone else.
Nelson also asked the Soldiers more baseball focused questions, including their best baseball-related memory and which MLB player they feel best exemplifies leadership.
"I was interested in doing public service and showing what the troops do for us," said Nelson, who resides in Seattle, Wash. "I've been to Afghanistan and Iraq and basically want to thank them for what they do. It's a job that I feel not many people thank them enough for and take for granted. I want to let them know that they are appreciated."
The relationship MLB has with the Army, according to Jim Jenks, mlb.com vice president and executive producer, is cherished.
"The Army and baseball have a lot of similarities in that success is built around teamwork and achieving goals towards building something special. It's a good relationship," said Jenks, a resident of Glenmoore, Pa.
The Soldiers participating in the interviews were from the 301st and 302nd Information Operations Battalions - which are Army Reserve units from Fort Totten, N.Y. - and were here conducting weekend drill training qualifying with M-16 rifles.
For the Soldiers, it was a thrill to see Nelson; many of them are N.Y. Yankees fans. Nelson pitched for the team as part of World Championship teams in 1996, and 1998-2000. Among the fans: Lt. Col. Molly McGlaughlin, from Marion, Mass., and the 301st IO Bn. commander, who appreciates the support MLB gives to the Army.
"I think it's a great avenue for promoting the military and recruitment efforts," said McGlaughlin. The Army core values are similar to the values MLB represents to America. It's nice to have this opportunity to interact with some of their favorite MLB players. It's a nice thank you for the Soldiers."
To see the interviews, log onto www.mlb.com.
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