Military honored at Voyagers game

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Katrina Heikkinen
  • 341st Missile Wing Public Affairs
MALMSTROM AIR FORCE BASE, Mont. --  Despite the 10-2 loss for the Great Falls Voyagers against the Missoula Osprey, it was a big win for those enjoying Military Appreciation Night with the teams.
Hundreds of the Great Falls community and service members came out to watch some local baseball at Centene Stadium June 25, thanks to the generous support of 1st Liberty Federal Credit Union.

Service members were given free tickets to the baseball game and a coupon for one free small fountain drink. It was a simple pat on the back, but it went a long way.

"Team Malmstrom salutes the Great Falls community for recognizing us year after year with this fun family event," said Brig. Gen. (Sel) Anthony Cotton, 341st Missile Wing commander. "It is a wonderful, visible display of appreciation for the military and civilian personnel who serve here and a great opportunity to continue to build the special bonds with the people of this community."

Col. Pete Hronek, 120th Fighter Wing commander echoed Brig. Gen. (Sel) Cotton's sentiments.

"We couldn't do what we do without their support," said Col. Pete Hronek, 120th Fighter Wing commander, Montana Air National Guard. "We enjoy any event that shows what our Airmen do because when we go around town in our uniform everyone says 'thanks for your service,' and I always respond with 'thanks for your support.'"

For one staff sergeant, this was his first experience at a community baseball game.

"This is mine and my family's first time coming here," said Staff Sgt. Harrison Roberts, 341st Maintenance Group quality assurance. "I've always heard about it; always wanted to participate, but I never got a chance to."

Members of Malmstrom's Air Force base honor guard sang and performed the colors, which was then followed by the first pitch thrown by Brig. Gen. (Sel) Cotton.

"We try our hardest to portray a positive image and when we do that we see the benefits of it with them coming back to us and offering us a night like this," Sergeant Roberts said.