The tenth game of the 2023 NCAA Men's College World Series on Tuesday, June 20, at 6 p.m. CT marked a special occasion for our Heroes in the Heartland. The evening kicked off with a remarkable pregame swearing-in ceremony, led by Colonel Kristen Thompson, the first female commander in the history of the 55th Wing of Offutt Air Force Base. Nine new Air Force recruits proudly pledged their dedication to serving the nation.

As the sun set, Omaha Fire Captain Danielle Landholm sang the national anthem. Adding to the patriotic atmosphere, the Omaha Joint Police and Fire Department Honor Guard presented the colors, while 25 local fire and police agencies lined the first baseline, showcasing their agency flags.

A moment of reflection followed as the game commemorated the 70th anniversary of the armistice that ended the Korean War in July 1953. Two local Korean War veterans, Sergeant LeRoy Andresen and Corporal Don Kane, were honored for their service.

Among the game's highlights were the honorary captains who were chosen for their extraordinary contributions. Each honoree took part in an on-field recognition, engaging pre-game activities with the teams, and received an exclusive VIP package, complete with tickets, parking, hospitality, swag, and gift cards.

The four esteemed individuals chosen as honorary captains were:

• Iowa State Patrolman Matthew Raes - With an impressive career as a state trooper and a K9 handler, Raes has been a dedicated member of law enforcement since April 2015. His partner, the highly skilled K9 Pape, has accompanied him since 2020, excelling in apprehension, narcotic detection, and evidence recovery. Assigned to Post 3 - Council Bluffs, Raes and Pape exemplify unwavering commitment.

• United States Marine Corps Veteran Anthony Holdren - Having served in the Marine Corps from 2004 to 2014, Sergeant Holdren earned great respect during his time of service. Currently pursuing a biology major at UNO, he resides in Omaha with his wife Amy and their three children. Holdren's dedication to his studies and family echoes the values of a true hero.

• United States Air Force Major Anne Marie Kennedy - Stationed at Offutt Air Force Base, Major Kennedy wears multiple hats as an Air Force officer and a Family Medicine Physician Instructor with the UNMC Family Medicine Program. Originally from Stratford, CT, she now calls Omaha home, where she lives with her husband Robby and their faithful dog, Ollie. Major Kennedy's tireless efforts in both military and civilian roles inspire all around her.

• Vice President of the Nebraska Fire Chiefs' Association Bill Montz - With an extraordinary 43-year career in first response, Montz's service spans the Air Force, Coast Guard, and multiple Nebraska fire departments and rescue squads. His heroism has been recognized with three Nebraska State heroism awards and four national heroism awards in 2019. Currently, Montz serves as the Vice President of the Nebraska Fire Chiefs' Association, and his impact extends far and wide.

During the game, the recipients of the First Responders Scholarship were also honored for their exceptional dedication and commitment to their communities. Their relentless efforts truly exemplify the spirit of Heroes in the Heartland.

Furthermore, the Greater Omaha area received distinguished recognition as one of five selected communities across the nation for the Great American Defense Communities award. This accolade commends the Greater Omaha area for its outstanding commitment to improving the lives of service members, veterans, and their families. The honor serves as a testament to the unwavering support and gratitude shown by the community.