The San Diego Padres hosted the “Military Opening Day” and their first KidsFest of the 2017 season at Sunday’s game against the San Francisco Giants at Petco Park.
Pregame ceremonies included on-field recognition of more than 100 service members representing all branches of the armed services lining the base paths and a demonstration by the U.S. Navy Parachute team, the Leap Frogs.
General Jurney representing 400+ recruits here with us today—their 1st time in public in @USMC uniforms— who become U.S. Marines on Friday! pic.twitter.com/Fht1ECgI2c
— San Diego Padres (@Padres) April 9, 2017
Nine active-duty service members joined the Padres starting lineup at their positions as part of “Military Takes the Field.” The national anthem was performed by Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Veronica Baca from 1st Supply Battalion at Camp Pendleton.
A flyover by a Hawkeye E2 Aircraft from Naval Air Station Point Mugu followed the national anthem.
Now making their entrance: @NavyLeapFrogs ???????????? #SDMilitary pic.twitter.com/zN2blShnmQ
— San Diego Padres (@Padres) April 9, 2017
U.S. Marine Corps spouse Alexa Gilmore sang “God Bless America” between halves of the seventh inning. The Padres wore their tan camouflage jerseys.
KidsFest started at 11 a.m. at the Park with activities including bounce houses, inflatables, games, face painting and balloon artists. Two Padres players signed autographs at the Park at the Park from noon to 12:30 p.m.
A Compadres Kids membership was required to participate in the signings. Membership is free and available on-site. Children 14 and under ran the bases on the field after the game.
— City News Service