PHOENIX – The Phoenix Suns will pay tribute to military veterans and active duty personnel during Military Appreciation Night, brought to you by Carl’s Jr., on Wednesday, November 12, when the team hosts the Brooklyn Nets at US Airways Center. The first 5,000 fans in attendance will receive a Phoenix Suns dog tag, with doors scheduled to open at 5:30 p.m.
Prior to tip-off, scheduled for 7 p.m., the National Anthem will be performed by a member of the military, while approximately 30 other servicemen and women will present a giant American flag covering the Suns court. Veterans and active duty personnel will then be featured in a number of in-game tributes, activities and contests.
The Phoenix Suns are offering those with a valid military ID a special 50 percent discount off tickets to Wednesday’s game. Tickets can be purchased at Suns.com. Veterans and members of the military will also receive a 20 percent discount in the Suns Team Shop throughout the evening.
“The Suns organization is proud to support the men and women of our United States military,” said Suns President, Jason Rowley. “As a veteran myself, I understand the sacrifice these brave individuals make to ensure our safety and freedom, and I look forward to honoring them on Wednesday night.”
Prior to Wednesday’s Military Appreciation Night, brought to you by Carl’s Jr., the Suns will be involved in various military tributes across the Valley. The Gorilla visited Luke Air Force Base for their “Wingman Day” event earlier today, and will participate in the Phoenix Veteran’s Day Parade, alongside Carl’s Jr., on Tuesday, November 11.
In addition, the Suns will celebrate the Marine Corps birthday (Nov. 10) by recognizing Lance Corporal Brandon Coleman Jr. of the US Marine Corps, on Sunday, November 9 when the team hosts the Golden State Warriors. Coleman Jr. returned home from Afghanistan on Monday, November 3, after being deployed for almost four months. Coleman Jr.’s father, Brandon Sr., also served in the Marines, and his younger brother Trace is currently in boot camp.
During the two Suns home games leading up to Military Appreciation Night (Friday vs. Sacramento and Sunday vs. Golden State), fans will have an opportunity to record video messages to veterans and active duty personnel, some of which will be used in arena on Wednesday night.
The special evening will serve as a continuation of the Suns Military Appreciation initiative launched two seasons ago, which offers discounted tickets, typically 20% off, to military personnel for all Suns home games, while supplies last.