To encourage and fortify relationships between military service members, veterans, their families, their friends, and their Country; to nurture the path of communication for everyone, ensuring that no one is alone or left behind; and proving that we have not, are not, and will never forget the nobility of their sacrifices.

Thursday, October 25, 2012

Triple Amputee Marine Nick Kimmel Throws Strike

Photo by Associated Press

One of my co-workers was bursting with pride today, as he should have been. Why was he proud? Because his friends son, Nick Kimmel, a Marine, who became a triple amputee during his second Afghanistan tour was throwing the first pitch in Game 2 of the World Series. 

In 2008, Nick passed up a partial baseball scholarship to serve his Country as a Marine. Tonight he walked to the pitchers mound at AT&T Park and threw a STRIKE! See the video and read more here!
Kimmel was accompanied to the mound by fellow Veteran Willie Mays and  founder of Strikeouts For Troops and Giants pitcher Barry Zito. 

The pre-game ceremony honored World War II-era baseball veterans, managers, and broadcasters who served in the military. Lasorda said it best, "I've had heroes in my life-- Joe DiMaggio, Babe Ruth, but I look at this Marine here... this is my hero."

Thanks to Malcolm for brining this Hero and Marine to my attention.

Remember... Their Sacrifice. Our Freedom.