Celebrating military service through community partnerships Published Jan. 30, 2026 By Alyssa Janeway 88th Air Base Wing Public Affairs BEAVERCREEK, Ohio -- Wright-Patterson Air Force Base was once again invited to Wright State University to show appreciation for service members at the annual Military Appreciation men’s basketball game on January 15, 2026. The event provided an opportunity for the base to engage with the local community, featuring informational booths and activities designed to highlight military service and connect with students and families. Before the game, Staff Sgt. Marik Chrisman of the Air Force Band of Flight performed the National Anthem, followed by a presentation of colors by the Wright-Patterson Honor Guard. The game ball was delivered by the Air Force Marathon’s mascot, Tailwind and Wright State’s mascot, Rowdy Raider. Col. Dorinda Mazza, 88th Air Base Wing Deputy Commander, and Chief Master Sgt. Tessa Fontaine, 88th Air Base Wing command chief, gave opening remarks, thanking Wright State for their ongoing support and partnership with Wright-Patterson Air Force Base. “We want to take this time to thank you for your support of Wright Patterson Air Force Base,” Mazza said. “Events like this not only celebrate the service of our men and women in uniform, but they also strengthen the bond between the base and the local community.” At halftime, the 338th Recruiting Squadron invited 14 delayed enlistment program recruits from the greater Miami Valley region to take the oath of enlistment on center court officiated by Mazza and Fontaine. During the second half, 10 airmen from Wright-Patterson Air Force Base were recognized on the court for their service. The night ended with a Wright State win. To view more images from this event: https://www.flickr.com/photos/wrightpattafb/albums/72177720331757223