NORFOLK, Va. –
The Norfolk Admirals minor-league hockey club hosted the fifth annual Military Appreciation Night at the Norfolk Scope ice arena in downtown Norfolk, Nov. 22.
Military members from the local community enjoyed discounted admission to the game and an opening presentation from the Naval Station Norfolk color guard.
U.S. Navy Command Master Chief Anthony Evan Adams, NAVSTA Norfolk command master chief, kicked off the event by dropping the puck in front of more than 4,000 fans who attended the match-up between the Admirals and the Portland Pirates.
The event also featured a rendition of the national anthem by local middle school students and an interactive intermission showcase that gave Service members in attendance a chance to win prizes.
Service members expressed their appreciation of the team's acknowledgment of their commitment to the nation.
"As a Service member, I strive to give back to our community," said U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Zack Tanner, 83rd Network Operations Squadron cybersystems operator. "By having events like these, it lets me know that the community supports and recognizes my service, and that's a great feeling."
The Admirals gave fans a thrilling game, defeating the Pirates 4-3 in overtime.
"It's definitely a privilege to be part of an event like this," said Tanner. "It's an honor to be a [member] of such a welcoming community."