Seattle is undergoing its yearly ritual of change here in the month of April. A sea of blue apparel can now be seen making its way through the streets of downtown. A large "S" emblazoned on the front of t-shirts, sweatshirts, jackets and hats are everywhere you look. We have now entered Mariner territory, and the season has just begun! Last night the Mariners celebrated Armed Forces Appreciation Night at their second game of the season.

The smell of roasted peanuts and freshly cut grass wafted from Safeco Field. As I entered the stadium the bright lights and the cheers from the crowd geared me up for the start of the game. For any baseball fan, this is what you look forward to all year!

I had the opportunity to be a part of the pre-game festivities during Armed Forces Night. Let me tell you, it was quite the experience! The Mariners know how to take care of their soldiers, sailors, airmen, marines and coasties! Five people from each military branch were chosen to walk out onto the first and third baseline to be recognized by name. It's a trip just to stand on the field and stare out amongst the cheering crowd. Add Mariner's players to come and stand next to you during the National Anthem, now that is just plain awesome! The players were extremely nice, shook our hands and stood by us for about five minutes. It gave us a chance to mingle real quick with some pro-athletes. I got to meet Adrian Beltre, Ryan Rowland-Smith and J.J. Putz! They are a lot taller in person!  

I really wanted to get an autograph on my baseball, but it was a little hard to try to smuggle a ball in my dress uniform pockets! Oh well, it was great to just have the opportunity to be a part of something that special. Go Mariners!

-Petty Officer Third Class Tara Molle

Official Coast Guard photos by Petty Officer 2nd Class Eric Chandler