Ramstein AB, Germany – What felt like the first day of the spring season seemed pretty fitting because on Saturday, 20 April, families from all across the Kaiserslautern Military Community came together to celebrate Youth Sports Spring Opening Day followed by the Month of the Military Child Carnival.
With more than 3,500 players, parents, and friends in attendance, the 86th Force Support Squadron Marketing team kicked-off the morning launching team shirts into the crowd, but more importantly 300 golden balls that could potentially win attendees a trip for two to the MLB London Series: New York vs. Boston!
The season officially opened with the parade of more than 40 teams marching around the field as everyone clapped and cheered for the tee-ball, baseball and softball players. Base Chaplain, Capt. Alex D. Johnson started the ceremony with a morning prayer followed with inspirational words from the 86 AW, Commander, Brig. Gen. Mark August. Then came the moment so many had waited for, the opportunity to win one of the two available trips to the MLB London Series: New York vs. Boston! One by one, each number was announced and our lucky contestants stepped up to pick one of the ten identical backpacks. Each backpack contained a different MLB team shirt, however only two would win. After all the contestants pulled out their shirts, the two people holding the New York Yankees and Boston Red Sox shirts were TSgt. Kayla Wadley and Maj. Lorena R. North. Congratulations to the first two winners of the MLB London Series: New York vs. Boston all inclusive tickets!
The fun didn’t stop there, because afterwards the 86 AW, Commander, Brig. Gen. Mark August tossed out the first pitch to a random lucky player. All the teams were dismissed to go enjoy the Month of the Military Child Carnival, this free event was enjoyed by all parents and kids. Participants even had the opportunity to dunk Melissa Wesley, the Director of Child and Youth Programs, in the dunk tank, to enjoy the bouncy castles, get their face painted, and grab a bite to eat compliance of Youth Programs.
The 86 FSS always looks forward to hosting this eventful day every year, we hope everyone had an amazing time at the carnival and has a great season!
Play ball!