Posted on 01/06/2006 4:31:02 PM PST by SandRat
SAN ANTONIO, Texas (Army News Service, Jan. 5, 2006) -- Even for a city known by many as "military city USA," the welcome ceremony for the Soldier Heroes of the upcoming "All-American Bowl" football game stood out as one they'll very likely never to forget.
Close to 80 Soldiers, who will represent the Army in this Saturday's premiere high school football contest, were honored with a fanfare celebration at the Sheraton Gunter Hotel in San Antonio. With the U.S. Army Field Band's "Brass Quintet" providing a musical background, each of the Soldier "heroes" were introduced to the cheering crowd outside the hotel.
Sgt. Maj. Vicki Washington, with Headquarters, U.S. Army Reserve Command, introduced each Soldier and spoke of several of their accomplishments to their country. "These are just a few examples of why these men and women are true heroes. It is my honor to present to you some of our nation's finest soldiers we're one Army from the ranks of the active Army, the Reserve and National Guard."
To the Soldiers, she announced that, "We are honored to greet you. Each one of you represents so many heroes from across the land who cannot be with us today. You are a symbol of greatness and we thank you for your service and your sacrifice."
During a private ceremony following their announcement to the crowd, Mr. Ray Holmes, the president of the USO Council of San Antonio and South Texas and Mr. Richard Perez, a San Antonio city council member, spoke to the Soldiers about San Antonio's appreciation for their sacrifices to their country. The Army Field Band's "Soldier Chorus" provided several patriotic renditions during the ceremony.
On Saturday, the Soldier "heroes" will be introduced along with the top high school football athletes from across the nation during pre-game activities at the "All-American Bowl" football game in the San Antonio Alamodome.
Daren Reehl
Soldiers get appreciation PING!!
BTTT!
God Bless them all!
BTTT
Big Heroes ~ Bump!
Disclaimer: Opinions posted on Free Republic are those of the individual posters and do not necessarily represent the opinion of Free Republic or its management. All materials posted herein are protected by copyright law and the exemption for fair use of copyrighted works.