On December 14, 2012, twenty children and six staff members were tragically killed at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Connecticut – a town located about 15 minutes from my home.
The Boston Red Sox and New York Yankees will be honoring the entire community of Newtown and all of the “Newtown Angels” who were killed when the two teams play at Yankee Stadium on April 1st – opening day. “On opening day, we will reflect upon more important things and play the game to honor the community of Newtown. Since the day of the tragedy, our hearts and thoughts have been with those who were affected,” said Hal Steinbrenner, Yankees managing general partner.
Red Sox principal owner John Henry said, “Months have passed, yet we are still trying to come to grips with this incomprehensible tragedy. As our teams look to face each other on opening day, we will stand united in support of the families affected as we remember and honor those who were lost.”
Opening Day pre-game ceremonies will consist of a moment of silence dedicated to the Newtown Angels and an honor guard of Newtown firefighters and police officers. When the game begins, each Yankee and Red Sox player will proudly wear a ribbon on their uniforms in the Angels’ memory.
On July 7th when the Yankees play Baltimore Orioles, approximately 3,000 people from Newtown will be invited to the ballpark for what will be “Newtown Day at Yankee Stadium.”
Way to go Boston Red Sox and New York Yankees, this is awesome and we love you!