GOODFELLOW AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- Angelo State University showed their deep appreciation for the military and their families at Military Appreciation Day, Nov. 4.
Angelo State invited all military members, past and present, to enjoy an exhilarating volleyball game free to all DoD ID holders, followed by the Ram Jam, which featured live music, food, games and a UH-1N Huey helicopter flown in all the way from Malstrom Air Force Base, Montana.
The crew of the Huey engaged with the community and allowed them to take photos with the historic helicopter. The Huey has been used in multiple branches of the armed forces, performing everything from search and rescue to routine missile site support. Allowing attendees to be up close and personal with this piece of military history sparked conversations among veterans, civilians, and active duty personnel about the sacrifices and bravery of all those who serve.
Following Ram Jam, Angelo State invited military members to attend their football game against Midwestern State. During the playing of The Star-Spangled Banner, two Hueys flew low over the stadium, drawing the crowd's attention as the sound of the helicopters’ rotors reverberated through the air as a giant flag was unfurled by ASU’s cadets from Detachment 847.
The day’s celebration of the armed forces continued throughout the game. Joint force commanders from Goodfellow were invited to the field to pass off the game ball and Col. Angelina Maguinness, 17th Training Wing commander, was brought to the center of the field for the coin flip.
During halftime, service members from Goodfellow brought out the state flags, and Maguinness joined new recruits to the United States Air Force for an enlistment ceremony as they pledged their allegiance and officially started their military journey. The halftime show honored all branches of the military as they played each branch song and invited military members in the crowd to stand and be recognized.
ASU’s Military Appreciation Day was an extraordinary event that showcased the university’s commitment to honoring and supporting the military community. Events like these bring the community together, fostering a deeper understanding of the challenges and triumphs of the armed forces. It was a day of unity, celebration and heartfelt appreciation.