Mariners host Salute to Armed Forces Night

JOINT BASE LEWIS-MCCHORD, Washington - Service members from throughout Washington gathered at Safeco Field in Seattle April 14 for the Mariner's 16th annual Salute to the Armed Forces Night.

Moments before the Mariners took to the field in their Major League Baseball game against the Oakland Athletics, six service members received the honor of throwing the first pitches of the game.

After the first pitches, service members from active and reserve components of the U.S. Military, veterans and members of various service organizations took positions on the infield to be recognized by members of the Mariners and almost 30,000 cheering baseball fans.

Representatives from each branch of service including America's I Corps Commanding General, Lt. Gen. Gary J. Volesky, were recognized with a commemorative plaque from Seattle Mariners Chairman and Managing, Partner John Stanton and Chairman Emeritus, John Ellis.

Sgt. 1st Class Jason Pickett, 504th Military Police Battalion, who was one of a select few chosen to throw out a ceremonial first pitch, said it was a great way to acknowledge service members.

"Well, I think it's definitely an honor to throw out a first pitch at any game," Pickett said. "To throw out the first pitch at Salute to Service Night is a true honor."

As America's I Corps and U.S. Army Forces Command's (FORSCOM) career counselor of the year for fiscal year 2018, Pickett was chosen to represent the Army and JBLM.

Retired Air Force Capt. Don Wood, a World War II and Korean War veteran delivered the game ball to the mound prior to the game.

Nine members of the Wounded Warrior Project were introduced as honorary Mariners. They stood at all nine positions on the field where their counterparts met them.

A U.S. Joint Service Honor Guard, led by I Corps Honor Guard noncommissioned officer in charge, Sgt. Timothy Nicholas presented the Colors.

"It was a surreal experience," Nicholas said. "To be leading all branches like that was an unbelievable honor. Getting everyone together was not without it's challenges."

He further explained that planning rehearsals that worked with everyone's schedule was a big hurdle to overcome. Practices were held for two weeks prior to the game on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

The crowd joined in enthusiasm and applause for all service members during the pre game ceremonies. The Mariners won the game 10-8.

Once again this season, the Seattle Mariners are offering discounted tickets for members of the U.S. Military. Military personnel will receive 10 percent off select Main, Terrace and View level seats for all remaining home games. For more information go to Mariners.com/Military