Phillies and Toyota team up to surprise beloved veteran in Old City

A secret mission is complete: a Salute to Service surprise! Earlier this week, the Phillies and Toyota teamed up for a Salute to Service surprise for Holly Beckes, an 11-year U.S. Air Force veteran and volunteer for the Veterans Multi-Service Center in Old City, Philadelphia.

Beckes, after serving as a pararescue medic, received assistance from the center for housing support, job training and drug-use prevention. She credits the Veterans Multi-Service Center for saving her life.

Today, she gives back to the veteran community, sharing her comeback story to help others get back on track.

The surprise was an incredible celebration of Beckes, with the red carpet rolled out for her big arrival, and Scott Palmer, the Phanatic and Ballgirls taking part. Paul Muller, President of Tri-State Toyota Dealer Association and fellow veteran, personally invited Holly to throw the first pitch at the Phillies’ Salute to Service Game on Saturday, May 23. Legends Dickie Noles and Mickey Morandini helped her prepare for the first pitch.

The center’s executive director, Joe Brooks, also spoke passionately about what an incredible person Beckes is, and how she brings hope to so many veterans in similar situations.

The emotional event was concluded with a pizza party for all veterans and staff in attendance.

Thank you to Toyota and the Veterans Multi-Service Center for all of their hard work in the community!