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Aerial porter throws out first pitch in honor of Veteran's Day

  • Published
  • By Master Sgt. Daniel Nathaniel
  • 624th Regional Support Group
HICKAM AIR FORCE BASE, Hawaii --  An Air Force Reservist with the 624th Regional Support Group along with representatives of the four other uniformed services threw out a ceremonial first pitch for the Hawaii Winter Baseball League Nov. 9 at the Hans L'Orange Field, Waipahu, Hawaii.

Senior Master Sgt. Mark Avery, 48th Aerial Port Squadron, was chosen to represent the United States Air Force as part of the league's annual Veteran's Day remembrance. Selecting him was an easy choice for management.

"Sergeant Avery is a regular fan," said Merv Yoshimoto, general manager HLB West Division. "He's a season ticket holder and we wanted to give him this opportunity." 

Sergeant Avery, originally from Cahokia, Ill., has been living in Hawaii since coming here in 1987 on active duty and has been supporting the local league for the past three years. 

It's an honor," he said. "My commander told me not to bounce the ball and I didn't." 

Sergeant Avery has served for 22 years and says he plans to stay longer. 

"I've deployed to the Middle East twice and will be going again next year," said Sergeant Avery. 

(U.S. Air Force photo/Master Sgt. Daniel Nathaniel)