PHILADELPHIA – September 11, 2001, is a day that Americans will never forget.
A moment in time that might feel long ago can still teach us lessons all of these years later. Without fail, Major League Baseball and the Philadelphia Phillies do everything in their power to honor those who served on that day.
Before Wednesday’s game, the Phillies had some special tributes planned for the evening.
Generations of Phillies fans gather at Citizens Bank Park for a baseball game but what they got to witness prior was a special lineup of ceremonies. In a heartwarming spectacle, people of all backgrounds joined together as one.
Phillies Honor First Responders
To kick off the event, the Phillies held a moment of silence in memory of those who lost their lives on September 11th.
Soon after, the infield would be surrounded. Members of the Philadelphia Police Department Honor Guard lined the grass of the diamond, holding a flag for every state. This sign of unity and strength was cool to witness in person.
Following that event, Jim Davie, United States Marine Corps Veteran and Veterans Multi-Service Center Board Vice President, tossed a ceremonial first pitch.
Davie was also a member of the Force Reconnaissance Company, Special Operations, and a Squad Leader for two tours of duty in Iraq, where he suffered life-threatening injuries. He threw out the first pitch to Kyle Schwarber, who is a large advocate for first responders. Schwarber’s family members have all served as a first responder and his charity, Schwarber’s Neighborhood Heroes, aims to raise finances and awareness.
The final event was the National Anthem. The National Anthem was played by the United States Army Herald Trumpets, who put on a stellar display. A subtle touch was the American Flags flying at half mast in center field. They remained that way for the entirety of the game’s action.
