Minnesota Twins honor military and family members during Independence Day weekend game

  • Published
  • By Technical Sgt. Erik Gudmundson
  • 133rd Airlift Wing Public Affairs
Airmen and Soldiers of the Minnesota National Guard took their place on the field at the Metrodome along with veterans from previous conflicts, other members of the armed services and their families during the 7th Annual Minnesota Twins Armed Services Appreciation Day on July 5, 2009 in Minneapolis, Minn.
 
The pregame festivities included a performance by the United States Air Force Heartland of America Band "Night Wing" from Offutt Air Force Base in Nebraska, a giant flag in the middle of the outfield carried by Minnesota National Guard members, children of military families standing with Twins players during the national anthem, flights by Freedom Flight and Liberty Belle hot air balloons, and ceremonial first pitches by veterans from conflicts dating back to World War II.
 
During the game the Twins wore caps honoring the five branches of the armed services. All current and former members of the military and their families received four complimentary tickets to the game. The Twins defeated the Detroit Tigers 2-6 in front of over 33,000 fans.