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Local veteran named White Sox “Hero of the Game”
By Kathryn Menue
EDITOR
For the past seven years, the Chicago White Sox baseball team has collaborated with the United Association of Plumbers and the Pipe Fitters Association to honor active duty, retired and veteran status military personnel for their service to this nation. These warriors are known as the Chicago White Sox “Heroes of the Game.”
“In partnership with the United Association of Plumbers and Pipe Fitters Association, the White Sox will honor a member of the military (active duty, retired, veteran) during a designated half-inning at each home game,” the White Sox reported.
On Friday, Sept. 30, at the 7:10 home game against the Minnesota Twins, local Vietnam veteran and VFW Post 1461 Commander Greg Kelm will be honored as the “Hero of the Game.”
In July, Commander Kelm was surprised to find out his children nominated him and that the Chicago White Sox picked him to receive this special recognition.
“It’s really an honor,” Commander Kelm said. “When I think of the three million guys I served with in Vietnam, it is very humbling.”
Commander Kelm served as a medic in the Vietnam War from 1970 through 1971 in the 101st Air born. Kelm’s duty was to treat and evacuate soldiers.
Now, the Chicago White Sox and their fan base would like to thank Commander Kelm for his service. The White Sox will honor Kelm by recognizing him on the field during the third inning of the home game by featuring him on the video board and by announcing a brief biography of his military services.
Commander Kelm will also receive a DVD of his recognition. The same footage will be uploaded to www.whitesox.com for anyone and everyone who wants to witness Kelm’s moment of honor.
Plus, Commander Kelm will be able to watch the game with three of his family members for free. They will be given a free parking pass as well, so all they have to worry about is enjoying the experience.
“The people are so nice at the White Sox office. They’re just fantastic,” Kelm said.
Along with Kelm’s family going with him to celebrate his recognition, other people from Boone County have already promised to attend the game to support Kelm.
So, not only will Commander Kelm be treated to an enjoyable game experience, but he will be able to enjoy it with the people who matter most in his life.
All of the supporters will be treated to an extra special evening as well, since Friday, Sept. 30 is Hispanic Heritage Night at the ballpark, which will end with a fireworks display.
“I’m really looking forward to it,” Commander Kelm said.
If anyone would like the Chicago White Sox to honor an active duty, retired, or veteran status serviceman or servicewoman they know, go to: [email protected].
