Photo By Spc. Scott Lindblom | Future Soldiers from around the Savannah area take the Oath of Enlistment during the...... read more read more
SAVANNAH, Ga.— Past, present and future military service members packed the stands of Armstrong State University’s Alumni Arena for Military Appreciation Day January 23.
ASU gave out free tickets to their women’s and men’s basketball game to show off their support to the local military community.
“We have tens of thousands of active duty and retired military here in Chatham County,” Dr. Linda Bleicken, president of ASU said. “This is a very big deal, these folks have given to this country and now it is time we give back.”
To start each game, Sgt. 1st Class Dana Fischl, vocalist, 3rd Infantry Division Band, sang the national anthem and the 3rd Combat Aviation Brigade provided the color guard. Veterans from World War II to active duty service members were asked to stand at different parts of the games to be recognized for their service.
Lou Molella, a 3rd Infantry Division veteran that served during the 1950s, cheered on the Pirates from courtside seats Saturday afternoon. His work with the Landings Military Relief Fund and functions similar to this continues to strengthen relationships between the Savannah community and the military.
“It makes them feel that this is their home, makes them feel like the people in the community embrace them and make them feel welcome,” Lou said. “Most of the military I deal with say Savannah is a very warm community.”
During the men’s basketball game, 16 future soldiers from the greater Savannah area marched to center court to take the oath of enlistment. Not only were new soldiers coming in, but nine soldiers from 3rd CAB reenlisted during the game.
The President of Student Veterans of America- ASU, Nakia Cooper coordinated behind the scenes to ensure the event went off without a hitch.
“I am ecstatic, it is a great thing to see a community show appreciation for the military,” Nakia said. “I am glad that the military is here and hope we can serve them like they served us.”
| Date Taken: | 01.25.2016 |
| Date Posted: | 01.26.2016 08:19 |
| Story ID: | 186972 |
| Location: | SAVANNAH, GA, US |
| Web Views: | 68 |
| Downloads: | 1 |
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