Indiana Military retiree honored at Victory Field

Photo By Staff Sgt. William Henry | Indiana National Guard retiree Sgt. 1st Class Gary Allen throws a game ball as part of opening ceremonies of an Indianapolis Indians game at Victory Field, Indianapolis, Friday, Sept. 2, 2011. Allen, who retired from the Indiana National Guard in 2010, was selected to throw a game ball at the opening ceremonies. Allen has dedicated more than 50 years to playing, coaching and mentoring youngsters to play the game.  

INDIANAPOLIS, IN, UNITED STATES

09.02.2011

Story by Sgt. William Henry 

Indiana National Guard Headquarters

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. – The crowd cheered at Victory Field during the start of a home game for the Indianapolis Indians, Sept. 2, 2011.

The home team patrons were there to support their team in playoff hopes, but they were also there to applaud men and women who served their country during a military appreciation night designated by the Indians organization.

One of those honored by throwing a game ball was a retired Indiana National Guard soldier, Sgt. 1st Class Gary Allen, Odon, Ind. Allen has spent more than 50 years of his life immersed in the game of baseball by playing, coaching and mentoring youngsters to succeed.

Allen stood on the mound wearing his Army Combat Uniform making his pitch to open up play for the Indians. Allen’s family members and grandchildren watched the pitch on the field.

“It’s really a great thing,” said Allen. “To have this opportunity is really a privilege.

“I practiced the pitch on flat ground and thought I was ready, but the mound threw me off a little,” said Allen, doubting himself afterwards. His grandson, Jacob, assured him his pitch was well done. “I think your pitch was the best out of them all,” said Jacob.

Allen has participated in baseball for most his life. In 1969 he started coaching youth leaguers in his hometown and has a field named after him. His children and grandchildren have actively pursued sports in leagues and schools they have attended.

He served during the Vietnam War with the Army and left active duty in 1975. He joined the National Guard in 1977 and served in Germany, Japan, and twice in Iraq. His second deployment in Iraq, with the 76th Infantry Brigade Combat Team during Operation Iraqi Freedom, was his last. He retired in 2010.

Allen said with sports he has learned to just take it easy and enjoy his time coaching young players. “Have fun with it, and don’t take it too seriously,” said Allen. “Let the kids be kids when you’re coaching them. I just love kids and love being around them. I’m still a kid at heart.”

• Date Taken: 09.02.2011
• Date Posted: 09.07.2011 11:33
• Story ID: 76582
• Location: INDIANAPOLIS, IN, US