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Military honored at Indianapolis Indians Memorial Day game

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — Active service members and military veterans were honored across the country Monday for Memorial Day.

Here in Indianapolis, Victory Field and the Indians dedicated Monday night’s game to service members.

From camo jerseys to a special first pitch, the team wanted to make sure it was clear that the game was all about honoring the brave men and women of the armed forces.

Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett kicked off the Memorial Day game, standing with uniformed service members and speaking about freedom.

“It’s inspiring, their dedication and their willingness to lay down their lives to protect the freedoms so that we can continue to live and enjoy life with parades and 500 mile races and picnics,” he said, “Their willingness to sacrifice the ultimate sacrifice, nothing can compare to that.”

Military members sang the national anthem and threw out the first pitch.

Countless others stood in the stands, remembering what this holiday means to them.

“It means honoring those that have fallen before me and also honoring those who are serving today,” Navy veteran Bill Titara said.

“You never forget about your brothers and sisters who died,” Army veteran Kenneth Ford said.

Ford said it felt good to see all the red, white, and blue and to hear the national anthem.

“It makes your heart feel real big inside and you know when you get told thank you for your service it’s all worth it,” he said.

He said he makes sure his kids treat service members and veterans special on Memorial Day and every other day of the year.

“We see a lot of people wearing veterans hats that served in Vietnam, Korea, WWII, and we always make it a point to go and tell them thank you,” Ford said.

After the game, the crowd could stick around for a military themed fireworks show.