Southern Wesleyan University Honors 36 Heroes at Annual Military Appreciation Baseball Game
May 25, 2026 | Athletics | Special Events
CENTRAL, SC — Southern Wesleyan University proudly honored 36 veterans and active-duty service members during its annual Military Appreciation Game in April. Held under clear skies and with beautiful spring weather, the baseball game brought together the campus and surrounding community in gratitude for those who have served our nation.
Among those recognized were university president Dr. William Barker and Congresswoman Sheri Biggs, who joined fellow veterans and guests for the special pre-game ceremony at C. Keith Connor Field.
The day began with a moving tribute to our armed forces veterans. Daniel High School Air Force JROTC opened with the Presentation of Colors, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance led by SFC Tyrina Griffin, and the National Anthem was performed by the Southern Wesleyan University Singers. Warriors CARE Center Co-Director Chaplain Mike Shannon offered welcome remarks and an invocation. As veterans were welcomed to the ballfield, the University Singers brought an emotional moment to life with a performance of the Armed Forces Medley.
Following the ceremony, the Warriors took the field against Belmont Abbey College in Conference Carolinas play.
Semper Fi Barn representatives Tom Von Kaenel and Marie Cole were onsite creating commemorative dog tags that were placed on a memorial display board that will remain in the Warriors CARE Center.
The Warriors baseball program also presented a $500 donation to Semper Fi Barn in support of its mission to serve local veterans and their families.
“We are delighted and honored to once again host so many of the men and women who have honorably served our country,” said President Barker. “As our SWU Warriors take the field in competition today, we recognize our nation’s warriors and their families who have sacrificed much to preserve our freedoms and our way of life.”
Congresswoman Biggs shared, “Southern Wesleyan University’s Military Appreciation Game was a wonderful opportunity to honor the brave men and women who have served our nation. As a Lieutenant Colonel in the Air National Guard, I am always grateful to see our community come together to recognize our service members, veterans, and military families."
Southern Wesleyan University has been recognized as a Military Friendly® institution since 2008 and most recently earned Military Friendly® Gold designation for 2026–2027, reflecting the university’s longstanding commitment to supporting military members, veterans, and their families.
About Southern Wesleyan University
Southern Wesleyan University is a Christ-centered, student-focused, faith-filled community that offers inventive learning experiences. The university endeavors to prepare its students to be dedicated scholars and servant-leaders who impact the world for Christ. For details about degree programs, go online to www.swu.edu.
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