More than 400 spectators gathered at the Marine Corps Air Station Miramar Youth Sports Complex for an up-close view of the San Diego Chargers during their 4th Annual Military Appreciation Day Aug. 20.
The team rehearsed plays for their preseason game against the Dallas Cowboys Aug. 21.
“[The event] shows the community does care about the military,” said Staff Sgt. Rupert Palmer, the motor transportation chief with Marine Wing Support Squadron 373, Marine Wing Support Group 37, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, I Marine Expeditionary Force.
The Chargers’ cheerleaders also performed for the crowd. Following their routine, both cheerleaders and players interacted with the audience by taking photos with fans and autographing mini helmets, Chargers cards and jerseys.
After the signing, the Chargers presented a signed jersey to Maj. Gen. Thomas L. Conant, the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing commanding general, and Col. Frank A. Richie, the MCAS Miramar’s commanding officer. Richie also presented the Chargers with a Military Appreciation Day plaque. After the presentation the players walked through defensive and offensive drills.
Several Marines from MCAS Miramar practiced with the Chargers including Cpl. Donnie Gilray, an airframe mechanic for Marine Fighter Attack Training Squadron 101, Marine Aircraft Group 11, 3rd MAW, I MEF, and a former quarterback for the air station’s football team, the “Falcons.” Gilray performed several passes for the Chargers to watch.
Gunnery Sgt. Michael Brown and Palmer, both former drill instructors, gave the Chargers a taste of what it takes to become one of the few and the proud.
“It feels amazing to get to work with the Chargers,” said Brown. “I’ve been looking forward to crushing their defensive players.”
The former drill instructors also showed the Chargers the consequences for having a lack of motivation, added Palmer. The DIs had the players perform several minutes of pushups, while enduring “motivating” screams from Brown and Palmer.
After a hot afternoon of fun, the Military Appreciation Day ended with crowds of sunburned fans still trying to catch a glimpse of their favorite players.
“We appreciate the Chargers coming out,” said Cpl. Michael Pride with the Wounded Warrior West-Battalion. “They were shaking hands and were genuine when they interacted with us. It shows that even celebrities know what we’re doing. It was a good way for them to show their appreciation for us.”
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