Washington Nationals Host Navy Day

By Mass Communication Specialist (EXW) Jennifer A. Villalovos, Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy Public Affairs

June 24, 2010 - WASHINGTON (NNS) -- Sailors were honored at a Major League Baseball game during Navy Day at the Washington Nationals ballpark June 23.

The Washington Nationals paid tribute to and recognized Sailors for their outstanding service to the nation.

Intelligence Specialist 2nd Class Eugene Padden, 2009 Chief of Naval Operations Junior Sailor of the Year, had the opportunity to throw out the ceremonial first pitch for the game against the Kansas City Royals.

"I was shocked and excited when I first found out I was selected to throw out the first pitch. This was a once in a lifetime experience. Excitement very quickly turned into nervousness and I had to keep thinking positive and just get out there and throw the ball," said Padden.

Hospital Corpsman 1st Class Oluyinka Adefisan, Vice Chief of Naval Operations Sailor of the Year, stationed at National Naval Medical Center Bethesda announced, "play ball" before the start of the game.

Adefisan said he felt proud to be chosen to take part in the pregame events and it was one of the best moments of his life. He never thought he would have the opportunity to be involved in any major league sporting event.

Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (MCPON)(SS/SW) Rick D. West also participated in the pregame events as the holder of the lineup card in the ceremonial meeting at home plate with Rick Eckstein, hitting coach for the Washington Nationals.

"Any time our Sailors are recognized for the hard work they do is great. Being out here at the Nationals game and seeing the support and respect from the teams and crowd makes me very proud to be in the Navy," said West.

The pregame ceremonies included Sailors from the U.S. Navy Ceremonial Color Guard and Chief Musician Daryl Duff, from the U.S. Navy Band who sang the national anthem and "God Bless America."

The game ended with a Kansas City Royals win over Washington Nationals with a final score of 1-0.