The Texas Rangers recognized 40 wounded warriors in a pre-game ceremony Saturday, Oct. 3, prior to facing the Los Angeles Angels.
A sellout crowd of more than 48,000 fans gave the Purple Heart recipients a standing ovation as they walked in from the left field gate. The honorees waved at the crowd and acknowledged the cheers as they proudly took their place on the first and third base foul line.
They presented a plaque to Rangers, which reads:
The Military Order of the Purple Heart Special Recognition is bestowed with pride to the Texas Rangers for your dedication and support honoring American Combat Wounded Veterans becoming a Purple Heart Supporter. Presented by the Patriot Members of DFW Mid-Cities Chapter 1513, Military Order of the Purple Heart, USA
For years the Rangers organization has built a strong relationship with the local military and Veteran community. That strong relationship has brought about a long and rich history of the team of honoring America’s Veterans and active duty personnel.
“It is a form of us giving back to those who have given so much,” said Chuck Morgan, the son of a World War II Veteran and the Rangers public address announcer. “It also gives fans the opportunity to feel pride in our country and show their appreciation and show their appreciation to those who have served.”
That was evident at the Rangers stadium on Saturday afternoon. The following day the Rangers captured the 2015 West Division title beating the Angels 9 – 2.
Photo courtesy of Kaylan Eastepp, Texas Rangers
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A personal reflection on generational service from VA Deputy Assistant Secretary Aaron Scheinberg.
I have to get something off my chest. While I have nothing but respect for ALL veterans, it is my submission that there is a “generation” of forgotten veterans. I was enlisted from May, 1976 to Sept., 1985. During this period, the U.S. military was involved in 3 relatively forgotten conflicts. The Vietnam Vets have non-profits specific to them, & Wounded Warrior only helps those injured after 2001 (?). A few years ago, my identity was stolen, & my life went to hell! I couldn’t get help from any veteran service non-profits – I didn’t fall into their time frame! We made it through without them!
My whole point is that just because the gov’t couldn’t start a MAJOR war when we were serving, doesn’t mean we didn’t do our part, make sacrifices, & go through some pretty extreme changes too! An honorable discharge should be all that a veteran in need requires!
Great write up, MOPH 1513 (chapter that sponsored) posted a video on YOUTUBE of some of the pictures. The crowd was so supportive and honored up greatly. https://youtu.be/t9zT4OWBopk