"Words can't really explain nor do the experience justice right now," said Army Staff Sgt. Alton Day, who has been stationed in Iraq for nearly a year. "It was amazing [because] I think about my family each and every day I'm away from them. They give me a purpose, and it's incredible to have them to come back to. They're my reason I want to make this world a safer place."
Day and three others, Army Spc. Danyul Davis, Sgt. Louis Davis, and Naval Petty Officer First Class Terry Eady received short leaves from the Department of Defense for the reunion. The soldiers were hidden until the last moment behind a banner, while the kids thought they had just won tickets to the game, along with halftime field passes.
Day played in December's Connect to Home Bowl, a flag football game in Iraq that honored all troops serving abroad. Retired NFL players including former Eagles Javon Kearse and Rodney Peete in addition to former Florida State coach Bobby Bowden took part.
Love is in the air
Nothing says "I love you" like Reading Phillies tickets, and R-Phils mascots Screwball and the Crazy Hot Dog vendor are going to great lengths to ensure fans don't forget. The two are scheduled to go on a door-to-door campaign through Berks County to promote the team's Valentine's Day package. Along with chocolates are three packages ranging from $90 to $175 that include a voucher for four box seats to a game and a choice of a dozen long-stem roses, a personalized R-Phils jersey or both. *
- Kerith Gabriel
Send e-mail to highandinside@phillynews.com.
