8-Spoked Salute

Many local sports organizations make an effort to honor our nation's military. On the 4th of July, the Red Sox surprised a sailor's family by flying her in from the ship she was stationed on; the Patriots and Celtics both salute members of the armed forces at games, as well as through team-sponsored fundraisers; but for me, the world-champion Boston Bruins have done more than any of these teams combined.

The Boston Bruins and Mass State Lottery teamed up to honor our nation's heroes in a program they call "The 8-Spoked Salute to the Troops." Upon hearing of this fantastic opportunity in December of last year, I did some more research. All you had to do to nominate a service member was to submit a 500-word or less essay and a picture to the Bruins online. If chosen, the Bruins provide 4 tickets to a home game along with free merchandise, and the selected military member is introduced on the jumbotron.

At the time, my boyfriend- the biggest Bruins fan I know- was serving with the United States Marine Corps in Marjah, Afghanistan. When I saw what I had to do, I immediately jumped at the opportunity and submitted a picture and essay to nominate my boyfriend. Well, he was chosen! I received a call about 2 weeks after he came home in January, and he was honored at a game in early February. It was an incredible experience, and I know that neither of us will ever forget it. Below is a video from the game...enjoy!