Wellness challenge

Jasmine Hall, Oklahoma City Yard Dawgz director of game operations, discusses the rules of the obstacle course with Rick Stuart, AFGE Local 916 vice president, left, and John Over, Oklahoma City Air Logistics Center executive director, during a wellness challenge event at the Ford Center May 31. The event took place prior to the Military Appreciation Night hosted by the Yard Dawgz. (Air Force photo by John E. Banks)

Yard Dawgz host military Appreciation Night

Published June 12, 2008
By John E. Banks
Tinker Public Affairs

TINKER AIR FORCE BASE -- The sports scene of Tinker took an interesting turn on May 31 at the Ford Center. The Oklahoma City Yard Dawgs of the Arena Football League 2 sponsored a Military Appreciation Night for the active duty and retired community at Tinker Air Force Base.
   "This night was set up to show the active duty and retired members of Tinker that we appreciate the sacrifices that they have made. We also enjoy the opportunity to recognize their steadfast dedication and hard work to preserve the freedoms we enjoy in this great country," said Wendy Johnson, Director, Media and Community Events.
   The event at the Ford Center hosted over 500 personnel from Tinker. All the fans in attendance were entertained and treated to an exciting Arena Football League 2 game and all the family friendly events that go along with a Yard Dawgs game.
   "This event that we host every year is very important to us. We have large fan base from Tinker and this is our way of showing appreciation to them for their hard work and dedication to protecting us," said Christie Cook, General Manager of the Oklahoma City Yard Dawgs.
   The night was highlighted by the presentation of a 35' by 70' USA flag prior to the singing of the National Anthem. It took 40 individuals to present the flag and there were 20 volunteers from the Tinker community who took in the flag presentation.
   "As I stood at attention with my hat over my heart and the thought of all the men and women that helped make the symbol of freedom being possible and being grateful to those who preserved it, I was taken aback," said Gary Harkness, a 21-year Air Force veteran.