If you’ve seen the film “Fever Pitch” or heard a rousing rendition of Neil Diamond’s “Sweet Caroline,” it’s unmistakable that Boston loves its Red Sox. Their home, Fenway Park, is an iconic Massachusetts destination. The famous left-field fence, known as “The Green Monster,” attracts local and international visitors. Baseball is our great American pastime, but in Boston each baseball season is even more strongly associated with patriotism because of a personality unique to any ballpark setting.
At Fenway, U.S. Army Brigadier General (ret.) Jack Hammond distinguishes himself as both a baseball fan and a true patriot. The General leads the unique “Home Base Program,” based at Massachusetts General Hospital, which is dedicated to helping those who have suffered from post-traumatic stress disorder and traumatic brain injury as a result of their service in Iraq and/or Afghanistan.
The annual event raised more than $11 million in its first five years, and the General is looking forward to the program’s sixth year. “When Veterans return home, their mission is complete. Ours, though, is just beginning,” Gen. Hammond said. “The funds raised from this event go towards providing world-class care to help these men and women heal from the invisible wounds of war.”
On July 25, runners and walkers will experience the thrill of crossing home plate at Fenway to support post-9/11 military veterans and their families in the sixth annual “Run to Home Base,” presented by New Balance. The sponsoring Red Sox and the team’s loyal fans are deeply grateful that Gen. Hammond, a decorated veteran of Iraq and Afghanistan, is at the helm of a program that embodies two American passions – baseball and supporting those who have served our country. As a leader, the General is known for his bravery. People who served under him say he led by example on the battlefield. Today, on a baseball field, he continues to set himself apart.
