Michigan to Host Military Appreciation Day on Saturday
9/11/2014 12:00:00 AM | Football
ANN ARBOR, Mich. -- The University of Michigan football team will host Military Appreciation Day this Saturday (Sept. 13) against Miami (Ohio). The day marks the 200th anniversary of the "Star-Spangled Banner."
During pregame, a moment of silence will be held to recognize and remember all of the brave American patriots who have protected our freedom and lost their lives in defense of our great nation. Following the moment of silence, a 21-gun salute will be conducted by the Washtenaw Honor Guard.
The national anthem will be performed by the Michigan Marching Band, directed by Jerry Blackstone, Director of Choral Activities, Professor and Chair of Conducting at the University of Michigan.
Two large American field flags will be held by members of the Michigan National Guard, members of the University of Michigan ROTC, veterans from Team Red, White & Blue, local active duty troops and University of Michigan students, faculty and staff veterans.
At the conclusion of the National Anthem, Challenger, an American bald eagle, will soar onto the field. Challenger is a non-releasable bald eagle cared for by the non-profit American Foundation. He is named in honor of the space shuttle crew and serves as an ambassador for America's eagles, natural resources, and environment.
A flyover will be conducted by five L-39 Albatros aircrafts from the Black Diamond Jet Team, America's Premiere Civilian Demonstration Team. Leading the formation will be USAF Retired Lt. Col. Jerry "Jive" Kerby.
Joining the Michigan team captains during the coin toss will be Ken Weinert, who was deployed to Iraq in 2004 with the U.S. Army, where he was hit by an IED in Sadr City, Baghdad. Due to his injuries, he lost full use of his right arm. He has been active with the Wounded Warrior Project and has participated in the Soldier Ride, alumni programs and became a peer mentor last year.
During the third quarter, the University of Michigan will recognize Robert Fletcher as the Veteran of the Game. Fletcher, at the age of 17, voluntarily jointed the U.S. Army in 1950. On Nov. 27, 1950, he was captured and held as a prisoner of war by the North Korean / Chinese Communists until being released on Aug. 7, 1953. He was awarded numerous medals including the Combat Infantry Badge, Prisoner of War Medal, and a Purple Heart.
Michigan Athletics is offering specially priced tickets for all active and veterans of the United States Armed Forces to Michigan football games with the exception of Penn State. Tickets, which are priced at $50, can be purchased at MGoBlue.com/tickets using the code MILITARY.
Saturday's game is set for 3:30 p.m., and will be broadcast on the Big Ten Network.
Media Contact: Derek Satterfield (734) 647-1192
