Dayton, Ohio – As part of the Dayton Dragons’ commitment to celebrate, honor, and give back to those that served, the Dragons and the Dayton VA are recognizing 101-year-old Army veteran Lloyd Lynch for his service. Lynch will throw out the ceremonial first pitch on Friday, August 21 when the Dayton Dragons take on the Quad Cities River Bandits at Day Air Ballpark in the heart of the Water Street District. First pitch is set for 7:05 pm.
A native of Blue Diamond, Kentucky, Lynch joined the United States Army in 1943 at the age of 18. He served with the Seventh Armored Division in Holland during World War II. While overseas, Lynch and four fellow soldiers were injured when a shell struck near them. He spent three weeks recovering in a hospital in England and was awarded the Purple Heart for his service.
Following his military service, Lynch returned home and went back to high school, graduating alongside his brother, who had served in the United States Navy. Seven veterans who had returned from service were part of the graduating class. Lynch later went on to work for a mining company.
He will be 102 years old in September. “I never thought I would live to see 101. I have been in too many close calls,” Lynch said. “I am looking forward to this baseball game and throwing the ball out.”
The Dayton Dragons have made it a priority to celebrate and honor members of the military community, and Friday’s event will bring together hundreds of veterans and Dayton VA employees.
“It is so important that we recognize and give back to our local military community,” said Dragons President Robert Murphy. “With Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in our backyard, so much of our community is made up of military families. We are honored to recognize Lloyd Lynch and look forward to seeing him take the mound for the ceremonial first pitch.”
The Dayton VA will bring more than 400 veterans and VA employees to the Welcome Home Event on Friday. During pregame ceremonies, the Dayton VA will recognize five honorees for their military service.
Tickets for this date are limited, visit daytondragons.com/tickets or call the Box Office at 937-228-2287x290 to secure your tickets.