Phillies & Toyota to honor nation’s heroes with a ‘Salute to Service’ Celebration on Saturday, May 17, at Citizens Bank Park
On Saturday, May 17, military heroes will take the field for the Phillies Salute to Service presented by Toyota, being held before that night’s 6:05 p.m. game against the Pittsburgh Pirates at Citizens Bank Park. The on-field celebration will kick off at 5:30 p.m. with a special ceremony that recognizes all active duty, veterans and their families for their service to the country during this Armed Forces Day event.
Throughout the game, the Phillies and Toyota will also be highlighting the important work of Team Foster, whose mission is “No Hero Left Behind.” Team Foster is an incredible resource for veterans, supporting injured and disabled veterans through the power of accredited, life-saving service dogs.
To further recognize those who served, players and on-field personnel will wear camouflage-designed caps with their uniforms, as well as camo-themed socks throughout the weekend. The games will also feature commemorative armed forces base jewels.
“Toyota and the Tri-State Toyota Dealers are honored to once again stand alongside the Phillies to ‘salute’ the brave men and women who serve and protect our country,” said Paul Muller, President of the Tri-State Toyota Dealers Association.
“We’re especially proud to recognize veterans like Cpl. David Billingsley, whose service and ongoing commitment to fellow military members inspire us all,” continued Muller. “Toyota remains deeply committed to supporting our nation’s heroes—not only through meaningful partnerships like this one with the Phillies and Team Foster, but also through national initiatives such as the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s Hiring Our Heroes program, which helps veterans and their families successfully transition back to civilian life.”
“Once again, we are honored to partner with Toyota for this very special event, as we tip our caps to the brave men and women who have sacrificed so much for our freedom,” said Phillies Chief Revenue Officer Jackie Cuddeback. “On Saturday, we look forward to joining our fans as we salute and celebrate the many local heroes who bravely served, and continue to serve, our country and community.”
LINEUP FOR PHILLIES SALUTE TO SERVICE PRESENTED BY TOYOTA
Opening ceremonies will feature an exciting flyover by four United States Army helicopters – two Black Hawks and two Chinooks – as well as on-field introductions of veterans from each conflict: Andrew Einstein, from Afghanistan; Commander Joe Heal, from Iraq; Specialist Robin Mazon and SGT Ryan Mazon from the Gulf War; and Lance Corporal Thomas K. Walsh, who served in Beirut. Also being honored will be World War II veteran Herbert Ridyard; and veteran Robert Daub from the Vietnam conflict.
Also being honored: Christopher Bingham from Project K9 Hero and U.S. Army veteran Tiffany McKeany. In addition, Phillies day-of-game employees who served in the military will be recognized on the CP Rankin Rooftop.
Other on-field highlights include the United States Air Force Honor Guard and a special performance of the national anthem by the United States Air Force Heritage Brass Quintet.
Veterans representing Team Foster will participate in pregame events as well. Throwing the ceremonial first pitch will be retired United States Army Cpl. David Billingsley, who was surprised with a personal invitation for the honors by Toyota and the Phillies at his home earlier in the week.
Other Team Foster advocates taking part in the ceremony include U.S. Air Force Command Sergeant Deanna Martinez and Army Sergeant First Class Charles Martinez, who will lead the ballpark in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance.
Adding to the night will be the recognition of Team Foster advocate and U.S. Marine Corps Sergeant Olivia McDonald, who will take the field to be honored as a Toyota Hometown Hero at the end of the 3rd
Capping off the salute will be a special performance of “God Bless America” by the United States Air Force Heritage Band in the middle of the 7th
As part of the event, Toyota will host nearly two dozen military members from Team Foster in their suite for that night’s game.
More highlights include an exclusive Theme Night Ticket offer, with the first 2,000 fans who purchase tickets for this event receiving a voucher for a Phillies Salute to Service camo beanie.