BILLINGS – Players and fans helped remember fallen veterans tonight at Rocky Mountain College men’s and women’s games against Carroll College Thursday.
The Rocky basketball teams played for veterans at Military Appreciation night at Fortin Gym.
The U.S. Navy also held a swearing-in ceremony.
The men wore special jerseys in honor of veterans who died after getting post-traumatic stress syndrome (PTSD).
The women wore jerseys to honor veterans killed in action.
“I’ve spent most of the day today, pretty much a hot mess,” said Garrett O’Neil, who honored his brother Chris O’Neil. “Just trying to make sure I can mentally consume it all and be strong.
“Tonight is huge,” said Stacie Grandpre, who honored her brother-in-law Peter Grandpre. “Just giving recognition actually to all veterans who may have an issue.”
“Especially for non-veterans, the people in the audience that were non-veterans see that their students or their children are playing in memory of these guys,” said Ian Martin, who honored his fellow soldier Robbie McNary. “It really is a big deal for us and makes us really appreciative of what they’re doing.”
O’Neil and Grandpre say they want everyone to know there is help for veterans with PTSD.
Reporting by David Jay for MTN News
