MARINE CORPS AIR STATION MIRAMAR, Calif. – The San Diego Chargers expressed their appreciation to service members and families during the 6th annual Chargers Military Appreciation Day hosted by Marine Corps Community Services at the youth sports complex aboard Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., Aug. 17.
Stands at the sports complex were full of fans to see the Chargers’ football players practice on the field and watch a dance performance by the Charger Girls.
“When the Chargers run through the field you get to see all the excitement,” said Eva Marie Gutierrez, MCCS marketing director.
The appreciation day provides Marines with time outside of work to help build morale.
“I really enjoy the fact that they support the troops,” said Gunnery Sgt. Brian Meyer with the Wounded Warrior Battalion West at the Naval Medical Center San Diego, and a Mesa, Ariz., native. “I think it speaks a lot about the organization. That we’re in their priorities at all, I think it’s awesome.”
Not only do the troops benefit from the event, but the Chargers football players also enjoyed the day.
“It’s beneficial for both of us,” said Takeo Spikes, a linebacker with the San Diego Chargers. “You get a day off from doing the regular stuff that you do every day and get to interact with [the troops].”
MCAS Miramar’s Falcons football team was able to practice with the Chargers after a short performance from the Charger Girls.
“I think the [Marines] love it,” said Gutierrez. “I think our Falcons football team loves it as well. They get to interact with the players and practice, so who gets to do that?”
Brig. Gen. Steven W. Busby, commanding general of 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing and Col. John P. Farnam, commanding officer of MCAS Miramar presented a plaque to Norv Turner, San Diego Chargers head coach, to say thank you for their support and visiting the troops and families.