The Ravens baseball team hosted its annual Military Appreciation Game Wednesday, April 1, continuing a tradition now in its 13th year of honoring those who have served the United States Armed Forces.
Among the honored guests were 50 veterans—46 residents and four staff members—from the PTSD Foundation of America and its affiliated Camp Hope. The foundation supports veterans experiencing the effects of combat-related post-traumatic stress, while Camp Hope provides transitional housing, peer mentorship, and professional development for veterans and their families at no cost.
"We were honored to have welcomed our veterans not only as guests, but as part of our pregame festivities," said Eric Weaver, Ravens head coach. "Their presence, service, and sacrifice set the standard for what teamwork, commitment, and pride truly represent."
The ceremony opened with the presentation of colors by the Honor Guard Detail from Cypress Woods High School Air Force JROTC, under the direction of Master Sgt. Christopher Soto.
The national anthem was performed by U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Tonie Marshall, accompanied by her service dog, Rocco. U.S. Army Specialist Kyle Hugh Fox, a combat veteran, took the mound to deliver the ceremonial first pitch.
"The Camp Hope veterans really showed me how the game of baseball can bring people closer together no matter the struggles going on off the field," said Patrick Lewis, Ravens pitcher. "The game is much more than wins and losses—it's about the lives touched through the game itself."
Anthony Muro, program lead mentor for the PTSD Foundation of America, reflected on what the afternoon meant to those who attended.
"These moments of recognition carry great significance for those who have served," Muro said. "On behalf of all the veterans from Camp Hope and the PTSD Foundation of America, we would like to extend our deepest gratitude for the warm welcome and exceptional hospitality shown during your Military Appreciation Game. It was truly a meaningful experience for everyone involved."
