Brandon Twp.-Arguably the best moments at the Blackhawks game against Clio had nothing to do with touchdowns or defensive plays, but everything to do with sportsmanlike conduct.
On Sept. 12, at the home varsity football game against the Mustangs, the Blackhawks hosted the first military veteran’s night? granting free admission to the game to all veterans, as well as vouchers for free refreshments, and most importantly, special recognition to those who have served our country.
‘It was an awesome night,? said Brandon Athletic Director Don Watchowski, who collaborated with new Superintendent Matt Outlaw to have a special evening for the veterans. ‘It’s important for our community to show gratitude for all their service.?
The best part of the night, he continued, was the beginning. Before the game began, 14 veterans were welcomed on to the field, led by a bagpiper playing the ‘Scotland March,? and given a standing ovation by both Brandon and Clio fans, adorned in red, white and blue. Players on both teams lined up to shake hands with each veteran.
‘It really pulled the kids in and gave them a sense of the importance of the evening,? said Watchowski.
Following a welcome by Outlaw, the crowd observed a moment of silence. The bagpiper then played ‘Amazing Grace? and the BHS Marching Band played the National Anthem. Everyone in the stadium had been given a flag upon entrance and the waving of those flags in unison ‘was an awesome experience,? Watchowski added.
In between the first and second quarters, there was a stoppage of play as Brandon choirs performed ‘America the Beautiful.?
‘I thought it was great,? said Ortonville VFW Post Commander Dennis Hoffman, an Army veteran who served in Korea. ‘It makes us feel appreciated, gives you a lump in your throat.?
Craig Whitaker, a Coast Guard veteran who attended, agreed.
‘We enjoyed it very much,? he said.
Outlaw said the night was a chance to express gratitude to veterans.
‘A lot of the country seems to be feeling there is apathy, but that is not true here at all,? he said.
Watchowski said there are plans to continue themes for most of the home football games, including an annual game to honor military veterans, as well as hometown heroes including police and firefighters.
The Blackhawks topped the evening off by defeating Clio, 21-14.