JUNCTION CITY, Kan. - As the sun set on Al Simpler Stadium, camouflage uniforms and berets mixed in with blue jerseys and helmets as Soldiers with the 97th Military Police Battalion from Fort Riley, Kan., led members of the Junction City High School football team onto the field Sept. 17.
With a large American flag displayed by members of the JCHS Junior ROTC behind them, Brig. Gen. David Petersen, 1st Infantry Division deputy commanding general-rear, and Command Sgt. Maj. Darrell "Buddy" Wallace, 1st Inf. Div. command sergeant major-rear, accepted footballs and JCHS hats from Unified School District 475 superintendent Ronald Walker and two members of the JCHS cheerleaders prior to kickoff.
"This is always an honor of our USD 475 to take time out and honor the brave men and the brave women of the Big Red One," Walker said.
Wallace was not shy about displaying his support for the JCHS team, as he took the new hat and put it on, replacing the 1st Infantry Division hat he was wearing.
This was the fifth year for JCHS to host members of the military and their Family members.
"It's our way to pay tribute to the troops at Fort Riley," said Charles Volland, communications coordinator with USD 475.
About 65 percent of the school district's population, pre-school through high school seniors, is closely connected to Fort Riley.
Many patrons are connected to Fort Riley because USD 475 educates military children, Volland said.
"I've been doing this for 30 years, and I've never seen a community that is so supportive of the Soldiers as this community right here," Wallace said.
To honor local servicemembers, complimentary game tickets were given to active-duty Soldiers and military Family members.
Prior to the pre-game show, a meal was provided by the JCHS Athletic Booster Club. Active-duty Soldiers, Family members and those showing a military ID received the meal for half-price.
As the feature of the evening, the JCHS Blue Jays took on the Salina South Cougars.
"We are extremely proud to have such brave men and women who are putting their lives on the line every day in order for us to celebrate another Blue Jay victory," Walker said.
The Blue Jays didn't disappoint their special guests, with a 36-7 victory over the Cougars.
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