CrackerJacks Host U.S. Military All Stars

On June 29, the Will County CrackerJacks will play host to the United States Military All-Stars at 7 p.m. in a marquee exhibition matchup at Brennan Field. The game will follow an 11 a.m. game between the CrackerJacks and Southland Vikings at Brennan Field the same day.

This is the second exhibition game in franchise history for the CrackerJacks. In 2011, the club traveled to Rosemont, Ill., to play the Chicago Bandits, Chicago’s professional softball team. 

Playing by professional softball rules in last year’s exhibition game with the Bandits, the CrackerJacks went down on strikes 17 times during the ballgame. However, they trailed just 3-2 heading into the fifth inning. The Bandits would tack on three more runs, though, and win 6-2.

“When you look at the season schedule as a whole, obviously the team and fans will be excited for the chance to renew the MCL rivalries but you can’t overlook this game at all,” said CrackerJacks play-by-play broadcaster Mike Garabedian. “It may say ‘exhibition game’ on the schedule, but the meaning of the game will be a lot more than just an exhibition game.”

Over the last two decades, the United States Military All-Stars have put together ballclubs for its historic “Red, White and Blue Tour,” which tours around the nation and has made appearances globally as well. Armed Forces and First Responders participate while off-duty to support the brave men and women that serve the United States overseas. The majority of these participants have been deployed in direct support of the Global War on Terrorism 

The “Red, White and Blue Tour” is recognized as the most popular summer exhibition in the world, providing patriotic atmosphere, exciting entertainment and a once-in-a-lifetime experience to fans.

The United States Military All-Stars is the only barnstorming team in the world featuring players from all branches of the Armed Forces and First Responders competing in both baseball and softball. 

Established in Pensacola, Fla., at the request of President H.W. Bush, the United States Military All-Stars have earned the reputation as the “Globetrotters of Baseball,” performing in 45 states and 12 countries.

Since 1990, over 25,000 men and women serving on Active Duty, Reserve, Guard, ROTC, Service Academy, Delayed Entry Program, Wounded Warriors, Amputees, Veterans and First Responders have dressed for the “Red, White and Blue Tour” alongside Major League Baseball alumni such as Jeff Kent, Bob Feller, Tommy John and Wade Boggs.  Professional athletes and entertainers such as Doug Flutie and “Larry the Cable Guy” have joined proud Americans all across the country in wearing the unique camouflage uniforms of the United States Military All-Stars in the most patriotic tour in America. The bright yellow ribbon in the shape of an “S” on the uniform stands for “Support for our Troops.” 

“This is a great opportunity for the team and the community,” said CrackerJacks President and General Manager Jamie Toole. “I really think this is one of the highlights of our 2012 season schedule.”

Tickets for the game will be made available through www.crackerjacksbaseball.com or by calling the CrackerJacks at 815-704-2255. In addition, fans can contact the CrackerJacks by emailing info@crackerjacksbaseball.com.  Each ticket (all tickets are general admission) will be priced at $9.11. Part of the proceeds from ticket sales will benefit the Wounded Warrior Fund.