Photo By Sgt. William Begley | Sgt. 1st Class Dana Fischl, 3rd Infantry Division Band, prepares to sing the National...... read more read more
SAVANNAH, Ga. – The Savannah Sand Gnats hosted Military Appreciation Night honoring Savannah's military community by offering free general admission tickets to any military, both veteran and active duty July 31 at historic Grayson Stadium.
The Sand Gnats players and coaches wore special military camouflaged jerseys as they took on the Hickory Crawdads, a Texas Rangers affiliate.
The 3rd Combat Aviation Brigade color guard was on hand to present the colors, along with the commander, Col. John D. Kline, to throw out the first pitch.
“Who doesn’t love baseball,” said Kline. “It’s America’s pastime. My family and I are loyal fans and love to come to Sand Gnats games.”
Kline spoke about the quality of the relationship the community of Savannah has with the local military.
“The 3,000 Soldiers of the 3rd Combat Aviation Brigade are all very fortunate, and we love Savannah,” continued Kline. “It’s nice to be that portion of the 3rd Infantry Division that gets to live right here in the city. Our relationship with the city has never been better.”
Sand Gnats pitcher John Gant, a native of Savannah, has a great grandfather who served during the Korean War. Gant said he was proud not only of his family heritage, but also of the current military.
“Its’ great, those men and women are heroes and I’m proud to be wearing this jersey right now, It’s a good feeling,” said Gant.
Gant also joked about another reason he liked military appreciation night.
“I really like camo; it’s probably one of my favorite colors,” said Gant.
Additionally, Sgt. 1st Class Dana Fischl, 3rd Infantry Division Band, kicked off the game by singing the national anthem. After she finished singing, a fan came up and showed her appreciation for Fischl.
“You gave me goose bumps,” said the fan.
Fischl has been with the 3rd ID band for seven years, and has sung at military appreciation night for the Sand Gnats on three occasions. She also commented on the great relationship the military has with the local community.
“It literally feels like the Sand Gnats are giving you a big hug,” said Fischl. “The people in the stadium and the local community really make this an awesome environment. I feel loved by the crowd every time I sing the national anthem.”
| Date Taken: | 08.01.2014 |
| Date Posted: | 08.05.2014 10:39 |
| Story ID: | 138338 |
| Location: | SAVANNAH, GA, US |
| Hometown: | SAVANNAH, GA, US |
| Web Views: | 47 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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