Story by: LTC (R) Ryan Core
Photos by: MSG (R) Brian Giacobbe and MSG (R) Douglass Robbins
Arsenal Tech High School Army JROTC Kicks Off Indianapolis “Hoops for Troops” with Stirring Opening Ceremony at NBA Game
Indianapolis, November 10, 2023 — The Arsenal Tech High School Army JROTC Titan Battalion Color Guard took center stage at the Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis on November 9th, for the opening ceremony of the “Hoops for Troops” basketball game between the Indiana Pacers and the Milwaukee Bucks.
In a display of precision and patriotism, the five-Cadet color guard presented Our Nation’s Colors to a capacity crowd. This presentation symbolized the commitment of Hoosier youth to render honor and respect to America’s active and retired service men and women and their families. The Titan Cadet Command Sergeant Major supervised the rehearsals and ceremony, adding an extra layer of discipline and professionalism to the event.
The “Hoops for Troops” initiative, a year-round collaboration with the Department of Defense, USO, and various military and veteran-serving organizations, aims to pay tribute to the sacrifices made by military personnel and their families. Danny Lopez, spokesman for the Pacers, highlighted the significance of the program in fostering a connection between the community and those who have served.
Following the presentation of the Colors, the Arsenal Tech High School JROTC Cadets were presented with free tickets to witness the highly anticipated NBA game between the Indiana Pacers and the Milwaukee Bucks. The evening unfolded as a thrilling contest, with both teams delivering an electrifying performance in front of a packed Gainbridge Fieldhouse. The home team, the Indiana Pacers, emerged victorious with a narrow 2-point lead, securing a final score of 126 to 124 against the Milwaukee Bucks. The intense match kept the audience on the edge of their seats until the last second, making the experience even more memorable for the Arsenal Tech JROTC Cadets.
In the spirit of camaraderie and respect for the military, the “Hoops for Troops” event not only showcased the athletic prowess of NBA teams but also demonstrated the community’s unwavering support for the nation’s heroes. The Arsenal Tech High School JROTC’s participation in the opening ceremony added a touch of pride, making the event a memorable intersection of sports and patriotism in the heart of the City of Indianapolis.
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