SUN CITY – Glenn Groebli began a tradition in 2016, honoring Sun City veterans at Eakin Field with a softball game. As with other events, the event skipped a beat in 2020. The tradition marked its fifth year on Saturday, September 25.
Groebli kicked off the event by giving thanks to the people who prepared and put the event together: Wayne Wagner, Phil Haugens, Gary Krewer, Jim Czysz, Phil Miller, and Leo Ouellette. Recognizing the veterans in attendance, Groebli said, “We call them heroes because today, as we look around the problems of the world, we are still and will always be, the best country in the world due to the heroes you will meet today. May we never forget the men and women that served our country.”
Groebli called on the veterans to take the field. They gathered in the field by branch of service, carrying their flag and walking to their service song. Represented were veterans from the Navy, Airforce, Army, and Marines. The American Legion Post 673 Huntley Color Guard presented the colors. Groebli introduced Kimberly Berhans, who sang the National Anthem and God Bless America. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Sun City’s retired Army Major Dave Sanders. Greg Schuring, in kilts, played the bagpipes for the event.
A moment of silence was held, Groebli said. “We will have the remembrance of the deceased from the Sun City Softball players who left us this past year: Dan Donovan, Joe Droho, and Bill O’Malley.”
Joan Ausbury of Gazebo Valor Quilts continued the recognition of veterans, presenting 2 Veterans with Valor Quilts. Ausbury said, “John Pickleman and Mike Hadjuk, we would like to thank you for your service and present to you this Valor Quilt made by our members.” Pickleman and Hadjuk were wrapped with a valor quilt hug by Judy Manke and Catherin Ennis.
Groebli presented a check from the Honor the Veterans Group for $1000 to the Guild Valor Quilter to help with the expenses of making Valor Quilts for any Veteran in the community. Groebli also presented a like check to Laura Franz, the Executive Director of the Veterans Path To Hope.
Groebli said, “This group does a great job of assisting veterans who are having a hard time adjusting to everyday life after serving their country.”
Then it was time to play ball. Sun City softball veterans took the field to play a 4-inning game. Helping with the game, John Roccosanto umpired solo and Frank Yacono took the position of pitcher for both teams. The game end score was 7 – 7.
