Annual military appreciation game hosted by the University of Dayton men’s basketball Published Nov. 16, 2018 By Mark C. Lyle 88th Air base Wing Public Affairs WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio – The University of Dayton held its annual military appreciation basketball game at UD Arena Nov. 10. The Flyers basketball team won the game against the Coppin State Eagles 76 to 46, in front of 12,849 fans. This annual event is dedicated to honoring both current and former members of this nation's armed forces and featured several tributes throughout the night. The evening began with Brig. Gen. Mark Koeniger, 711th Human Performance Wing commander delivering the official game ball to the flyers mascot, Rudy, at half court prior to the 7 p.m. tip off. The Air Force Band of Flight’s vocalist, Staff Sgt. Joanne Griffin sang the National Anthem. The Wright-Patterson Honor Guard presented of the colors and 20 students from the U.S. Air Force School of Aerospace medicine and 15 University of Dayton ROTC students suspended a large US flag in the center of the court. At halftime, Koeniger administered the oath of enlistment to 18 future Airmen. The oath of enlistment is something that every service member must promise and adhere to for their entire military career. Two member of the Wright-Patterson AFB basketball team, Kyle Stankowski, and Cedric Thomas, participated in a three point shooting contest against a recorded video of UD player Frankie Policelli. UD arena is undergoing a 72 million dollar face lift which includes WiFi, 360 degree main concourse, and replacement of all 13,450 seats within the venue. The Big Hoopla NCAA First Four Local Organizing Committee donated 150 tickets for Airmen to attend the game. The Flyers are currently 2-0 and host the Purdue Fort Wayne Mastodons at the University of Dayton arena on Friday Nov. 16.