Middletown Will Hold Special law Enforcement Salute At Football Game

MIDDLETOWN, NJ-- Following recent protests by athletes, both professional and recreational, the Middletown Police Department and School District will hold a special salute to law enforcement at this Friday's game against Toms River North.

The National Anthem has become a major symbol of protest in recent month, following 49ers Coli Kaepernick's protest. It's become so heated that New Jersey students have gotten into fights over it.

Dozens of color guards from law enforcement agencies and drum bands from the Port Authority Police, State Police, Monmouth and Ocean Counties Emeralds Societies, and the Ancient Order of Hibernians will be in attendance.

Police officers, military members, veterans and first responders are expected to be in attendance as a large American flag is unfurled on the field. Both first responders and football players from both teams will hold the flag as the band plays God Bless America and Amazing Grace.

The National Anthem will be sung by a Port Authority Police Officer and students from both schools. Following that, the State Police Aviation Unit will conduct a flyover. Mounted Units and K-9 Units will both be in attendance.

Gates open at 5:00PM and the ceremony begins at 6:30, with the game following immediately after. A large crowd is anticipated, so attendees should arrive early to find parking and go through security.

Image via Mike Mozart, flickr.