UD Military Appreciation Night: A night of Patriotism

  • Published
  • By Gina Marie Giardina
  • 88th Air Base Wing Public Affairs
WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio --  The University of Dayton hosted Military Appreciation Night November 13 during the men's basketball team's first home game against Southeast Missouri State.

Prior to tip-off, the Wright-Patterson AFB Honor Guard presented the colors and a group of Airmen--all volunteers--pulled a U.S. Garrison Flag across mid-court while Band of Flight vocalist Master Sgt. Alyson Jones sang the National Anthem.

Patriotism was everywhere.

With the Flyers up 46 to 16 at the half, and after some fun with a 3-point shootout, the court was cleared.

Col. John Devillier, the 88th Air Base Wing commander, walked to the microphone with Chief Master Sgt. Lisa Arnold, the 88th ABW command chief, as 17 young men and women lined up across center court for a traditional swearing-in ceremony.

Many have witnessed these ceremonies, but this one was a bit different.  Just hours before the game was slated to begin, Paris had fallen under attack.

The crowd grew silent with the commander at the microphone.

"As many of you know, there has been an attack on Paris," said Devillier. "Our deepest condolences are with them right now."

Devillier continued and spoke about the honor and bravery of all service members.

"Joining those who have served as well as those who are serving now, these young men and women standing before us are part of the 1 percent who volunteer and say 'here I am; take me.'" 

Before he could even finish, the stadium packed with basketball fans jumped to their feet and roared in applause. It felt as if the foundation of the University of Dayton arena shook.

Then Devillier, with Arnold at his side, swore in those 17 men and women to the U.S. Air Force.

Following this time-honored tradition, Devillier and Arnold walked down the line thanking each young person for his or her decision to join the Air Force team.