Photo By Sgt. Joshua Young | Marines from Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Miramar and Marine Corps Recruit Depot,...... read more read more
SAN DIEGO — More than 200 Marines from Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Miramar and Marine Corps Recruit Depot, San Diego, and sailors from various units in Southern California, participated in the San Diego Chargers’ Military Appreciation Day at San Diego, Calif., Aug. 9.
Every year, the first pre-season, home game at Qualcomm Stadium is dedicated to honor and recognize service members.
The sold-out game’s opening ceremonies began with the introduction of the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing Band. The Charger Girls then took the field with 20 Marines and sailors. The service members welcomed the players as they came on the field.
“I loved being out there,” said Gunnery Sgt. Jesse Barta, drum major, 3rd MAW Band. “Any chance we get to show off and get support is great. The band played well, and the crowd loved it.”
Lt. Gen. Thomas D. Waldhauser, commanding general, I Marine Expeditionary Force, conducted the pregame coin toss.
The service members rolled out a 60-yard U.S. flag shaped like the United States.
The 3rd MAW Band played several songs, including “This is my Country” and “God Bless the USA” and opened the game with the national anthem.
“The Marines did great,” Waldhauser said. “The band did a very good job playing the national anthem. The uniforms all looked great. It’s just a great opportunity for the young men and women to be a part of a National Football League game right on the field.”
Marines and sailors currently deployed gave shout outs to friends, family members and Charger fans on the big screen throughout the game. The Chargers honored Wounded Warrior Battalion West during the halftime show for their accomplishments and sacrifices made in service to their country.
“I think the Chargers do a great job of trying to honor the military in San Diego,” Waldhauser said. “It’s a good way for the Chargers to start the season.”
| Date Taken: | 08.09.2012 |
| Date Posted: | 08.15.2012 14:06 |
| Story ID: | 93276 |
| Location: | SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA, US |
| Web Views: | 316 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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