HOUSTON, TX-- The Astros and Houston Area Chevy Dealers honored those who have served and are currently serving our country during Military and First Responders Appreciation Night tonight, Friday, Sept. 15. 
During a special pregame ceremony, Houston Area Chevy Dealers surprised U.S. Army Specialist Matthew Connally with a 2018 Chevy Equinox in honor of his service and sacrifice. 
U.S. Army Specialist Matthew Connally, who served on the Counter I.E.D. Team in Afghanistan, was eight months into his tour of duty when his vehicle was struck by an I.E.D., causing him to medically retire from the U.S. Army. For his service, Specialist Connally received a Purple Heart, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal with two Campaign stars, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, NATO Medal and Combat Infantryman Badge. 
"Words cannot describe how proud we, as a dealer group, are to be affiliated with the Military Warriors Support Foundation and to have the opportunity to recognize our local active and retired military veterans," said Craig De Serf, President of the Houston Area Chevy Dealers. "With the recent devastation that our beloved city of Houston has experienced, there is not a better time to say 'thank you' to all that serve - not only as the guardians of our country, but as volunteers who rolled up their sleeves and assisted those in need during Hurricane Harvey. We could not do this without you all."
Other elements of Military and First Responders Appreciation Night included a pregame ceremony with families of first responders and military members presenting giant U.S. and Texas flags on the field. Military members and first responders also lined the base paths with Astros and Angels players for the National Anthem, and Melissa Salvidar Hamilton of the Houston Police Department will perform a special rendition of God Bless America in the 7th inning. Additionally, 500 tickets to Friday's game were donated by Houston Area Chevy Dealers to active-duty U.S. military members.
-ASTROS-