Gary Ervin, corporate vice president and president, Northrop Grumman Aerospace Systems, throws out the ceremonial first pitch July 4 at the Los Angeles Dodgers Military Appreciation Night, sponsored by Northrop Grumman.
Northrop Grumman helped honor U.S. troops and celebrate the nation’s birthday as the presenting sponsor of Military Appreciation Night and Fourth of July Fireworks at Dodger Stadium Wednesday evening.
Gary Ervin, corporate vice president and president of Northrop Grumman Aerospace Systems, threw out the ceremonial first pitch before the Dodgers faced the Cincinnati Reds.
“Northrop Grumman is pleased to partner with the Los Angeles Dodgers for Military Appreciation Night on Independence Day. There is no more perfect day to honor our nation’s military men and women,” said Ervin. “Northrop Grumman employees understand the sacrifices made on a daily basis by our military members and their families. We value their dedication, courage and commitment to our nation and its citizens. This is just one way we can say thanks.”
The event’s partnership hosted 2,500 military members for the July 4 game. Before the game, more than 200 service members and volunteers from Northrop Grumman and the USO unfurled a 300-foot-long American flag across the outfield.
The game begins a season-long effort that will benefit the USO, Greater Los Angeles area. For each Dodger ticket sold during the season to Northrop Grumman employees, families and friends, $5 will be donated to help the organization provide assistance to meet the food, hospitality and morale needs of military personnel in this area.
“Thanks to the ongoing fundraising efforts of companies like Northrop Grumman and support from organizations like the Dodgers, the USO will be able to continue its 71-year history of providing hospitality and a home away from home to the more than 100,000 military members and their families who pass through USO centers at the Los Angeles, Ontario and Palm Springs international airports each year,” said USO executive director Bob Kurkjian.
