Dear editor:
Ding Ding...Ding Ding
Now hear this; now hear this...At 1500 all hands report to your local Vets club or television for mandatory viewing of the 113th ARMY NAVY game!
That is affirmative, on Dec. 8th at 1500 (3 p.m.) the Navy midshipman and the Army Blacknights will fight to see who takes home the Commander and Chief's Trophy via the White House.
The practical jokes have started. Stealing mascots, spray painting mules. I know someone who walked in a live Navy goat at the American Legion Annual Army Navy game party! My bulldog Cooper (AKA Meat Face) shows up wearing his custom made Navy jersey with USMC logo! He also didn't make a mess like the goat! Sorry Pat!
The game party here in Warren has become a tradition itself. Although not since 1890. For a few hours around the world this game will be observed. Updates will be transmitted from a C-130 to ground troops in Afghanistan to ships in the Northern Pacific, from the DMZ in Korea to Camp Pendelton and Vets clubs across the nation. During commercials and half time, even well into the night after the band starts, you will hear stories of days long gone. From comical events in boot camp to heroic acts of valor and toasts to fallen comrades. History lessons from the Vets that helped create it. An empty chair will on the sidelines for those who can't be with us. Our POW's and MIA's.
Current record, Navy 56, Army 49 and seven ties. From the parade of cadets to the singing of their academy's songs you'll experience the tradition and honor.
Every year I say "Next year I will see this game live!" one day maybe I'll get that chance...I'd give anything to be there when they play the Star Spangled Banner in that stadium...until then now there this...now hear this...
GO NAVY! - BEAT ARMY!
That is all!
Shawn Castro,
Vet. U.S. NAVY, Warren