Marines challenge San Francisco police, firefighters in softball 

Marines and sailors from the USS Bonhomme Richard took on members of the San Francisco Police Department and firefighters in a few friendly games of softball during Fleet Week, Oct. 7.

The service members went to bat against some of San Francisco’s finest at Moscone Park, a ballpark near the ship’s docking port. Members of the fire department said it was a great opportunity to play against some military friends.

“It’s good to meet with everybody that’s out there fighting for our country,” said Geoffrey R. Quesada, a San Francisco firefighter. “It’s extremely important to us to show our appreciation for these guys.”

Cpl. Steve Vargas, Military Police Company, Combat Logistics Regiment 17, 1st Marine Logistics Group, said it was important to build the camaraderie.

“We pretty much have the same job,” said Vargas. “We both serve the community, it’s just in different aspects. It’s good for us to be able to thank them for what they do, too.”

Quesada said that while his fellow firefighters and police officers enjoy the Fleet Week events and festivities, the best part was actually getting to hang out with the Marines.

“We love what you guys are doing,” said David E. Smiley, a San Francisco firefighter. “We know you guys work hard, but it’s great that you are able to come out here and have a good time too."

Fleet Week is an annual event held in part to strengthen ties between the military and the citizens of the San Francisco Bay Area. During the week, service members take part in multiple events, from ship tours to static displays, demonstrating the unique capabilities of the Navy-Marine Corps team.