South Kitsap Southern Little League: 2007 opening Ceremonies
Saturday, March 24Opening Ceremonies
Even though it was a rainy day, Opening Ceremonies were held at SKSLL. All teams took the field, a few with umbrellas, a tribute to Devon Gibbons was made and Art Mikelsen was recognized for 51 years as the District 2 Administrator.
Mel Gibbons, Devon's father, brought an American Flag flown over the US Capital for us to raise during the ceremonies.
Below is the speach by President, Donna Main for the unveiling of a monument at the base of the American Flag.
"Ladies and Gentlemen, South Kitsap Southern Little League would like to pay tribute to one of our fallen heroes.
"Private First Class Devon Gibbons was serving his Country in the US Army’s 7th Squadron, 10th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, known as the Bulldog Troop. PFC Gibbons had been in Iraq for 23 days when the Vehicle he was driving was struck by an Explosive Device on April 11, 2006. For the next 10 weeks at Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio, Gibbons fought to heal from burns on 90 percent of his body and the loss of parts of three limbs. On June 23rd Devon’s body wore out and he returned to the loving arms of the Savior.
Devon played for South Kitsap Southern Little League from 1996 to 1999 on the very fields we play on today. Devon was a natural athlete, according to his brother Ryan. He played at the Majors level for 3 years and was selected to the All Star team.
"Thank you, Devon and Family for your dedication to our Country by defending freedom around the world. Thank you Mel and Bonnie for instilling a sense of pride and love of our Country in your Children. And thank you Mel for setting such a wonderful example by serving in the US Army in Vietnam.
"Please Stand and direct your attention to the area behind the Majors field back stop for the unveiling of a monument to remember Devon."
“Ready and Forward” (Bugler played taps, monument was unveiled)
Ready and Forward is the motto of the Army unit that Devon was assigned.
Below is a shadow box presented to the Gibbons family from the SKSLL board.
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