Thanks to a connection with the White Rhino, Memorial Day included cheering for the Sox (the red ones) at Fenway. Al knows everyone at the park, and we know Al. He offered to let us volunteer with him in Autograph Alley, then sit with him behind home plate. Twist our arms.
The weather was perfect for an evening baseball game and the park was full of Sox fans, both red and white (the white ones being from Chicago).
Fenway pulled out all the stops to honor veterans — a massive American flag unfurled down the green monster as the announcer introduced all the veterans working at the park. Frank Zarba, of the Ancient and Honorable Artillery Company of Massachusetts, belted the national anthem.
Fred Czupkiewicz, a 94-year-old WWII veteran and former POW, nailed the first pitch. I might have teared up a bit.
Aside from lackluster pitching and a final score of 7-3 Sox (white, Chicago), is was a perfect evening at the ballpark. Ian's favorite thing about Fenway is the absence of gimmicks — aside from the hot dog prices and gigantic screen, you can imagine you're at a game from years past. And win or lose, you always* have fun — we sure did. Thanks to Al for inviting us along!
*exception: Yankees.