TAMPA BAY - The Tampa Bay Lightning are set to host the team’s annual Military Appreciation Night, presented by USAA, on Sunday, November 16 when the Bolts host the Vancouver Canucks at 5:00 p.m. The night serves to recognize and support the members of the United States Armed Forces and their families.
Inside Benchmark International Arena, tributes will begin with the Presentation of Colors by the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) and the display of a large American flag on the south end of the arena held by 30 veteran volunteers from the James A. Haley VA Hospital. The National Anthem will be performed by Technical Sergeant Sonya Bryson-Kirksey, United States Air Force (Ret.), followed by a moment of silence to honor those who gave their lives in service. Other pre-game highlights include a ceremonial puck drop by SOCOM Leaders and military children from Blue Star Families will enjoy a special pre-game ride on the Chick-Fil-A Fan Zam.
During the first intermission, the Lightning will present a check to Operation Healing Forces for $10,000, raised during Lightning Fantasy Camp. The second intermission will feature a U.S. Army enlistment ceremony, where 40 recruits will take the oath of enlistment.
Through the Lightning’s Player Ticket Program and Seats for Service initiative, over 700 tickets were donated to local service members and nonprofit groups. Participating organizations include the Navy SEAL Foundation, USO, Blue Star Families, Wounded Warrior Project, Gold Star Families, and multiple local commands from MacDill Air Force Base and surrounding military units.
In addition, the Tampa Bay Sports Team Store will feature a full military-themed merchandise collection and offer a 35% discount to all military members for the evening.
Fans are encouraged to arrive early to enjoy all pregame plaza activations and to join the Lightning in showing appreciation for the military community throughout the evening.
