By Joseph Hunt
I find it impossible to adequately describe the impact of Lt. Joe Hunt Military Appreciation Day at the US Open. On the first Saturday of the tournament, the USTA once again gave tennis fans in Arthur Ashe Stadium and around the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center perhaps the most inspiring day of patriotism and gratitude in professional sports.
I know I am biased, but honestly, what could be greater than taking a full day to honor and appreciate those wearing the uniform who have selflessly served our nation and sacrificed so much.
At this 13th consecutive annual event, the special guests of distinction were Lt. General Dr. John J. DeGoes (Surgeon General of the Air Force and Space Force); Lt. General, Nadja West (Retired Surgeon General of the Army); Shannon Miller (Seven-time Olympic Medalist in gymnastics); Lt. Col. Jimmy Tom, of the U.S. Vietnam War Commemoration Office, who was present to honor Vietnam Veterans for their service, valor, and sacrifice; and a living legend from the greatest generation, Arthur Grubiner, a Navy sailor who served with distinction in the Pacific Theater in WWII as the US fought its way to victory. These are people who embody excellence and service.
The US Open has cemented into its mission the value that it will never forget the men and women who protect our nation, nor will it ever take for granted that our very freedoms, including the privilege of gathering to enjoy our sport, rest upon the many sacrifices of those who serve.
The fact that Lt. Joe Hunt is remembered for his sacrifice and made a part of this value is humbling and remarkable.
I wish to thank the US Open and USTA, with special gratitude to those whose support and passion are and, through the years, have been indispensable:
Dr. Brian Hainline, USTA Chairman of the Board
Patrick Galbraith, Past President
Michael McNulty, Past President
Katrina Adams, Past President
Jon Vegosin, Past President
Lew Sherr, USTA Chief Executive Officer
Stacey Allaster, US Open Tournament Director
Marisa Grimes, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Officer
Jeff Dean, Official Photographer and Iraq war veteran
I cannot close this post without expressing my profound gratitude to those whose competence, energy, and pure heart make the day happen. I am in awe of you, and I owe you so much.
You know who you are:
JoAnn Wallen, USTA National Campus General Manager
Andrea Snead, Diversity and Inclusion Director
Kevin Wensing, Retired Captain of the Navy
And always . . . the veterans and their families in attendance, Lovey Jergens and 10sBalls.com.
