MAMAIA, Romania-- U.S. Army Soldiers from Mihail Kogalniceanu Air Base, Romania, competed against Navy Sailors stationed aboard the USS Porter (DDG 78) currently deployed in the Black Sea Region, in the Warm-up for the Charity Basketball Game in Constanta, Romania, August 13, 2019.
The event was open to the public and raised awareness for the annual Charity Basketball Game in December, which helps raise money for disadvantaged families in Constanta County.
The Soldiers and Sailors arrived at Casino Square in Mamaia, Constanta, to participate in the game. The event kicked off with a live band, followed by the singing of both the Romanian and United States national anthems.
Energetic music throughout the event grabbed many people's attention and drew in a large crowd to watch the exhibition game. Spectators cheered for both the Army and the Navy side.
“I’m super pumped. I think it’s really exciting,” said Pfc. Chandler Jones, one of the players for the U.S. Army basketball team. “You can definitely feel the energy. It’s contagious, and I think that’s a plus.”
At halftime, there was a basket shooting competition for the kids as well as a performance by the local Romanian dance troupe Dance Revolution. The winner of the contest received a basketball signed by all the Army and Navy players.
In addition to the friendly competition, the Army showcased a static display of Humvees at the event. Romanian locals were able to talk with the Soldiers and ask them questions about their jobs and the equipment.
“This event shows that we are here to help out the community,” said Jones. “We are not just here to have a military presence, we are also here to make a difference in the community.”
The Warm-up for the Charity Basketball Game was organized by Phoenix Constanța Sport Club with the support of the Constanța City Hall and Navy League of the United States.