Historic Grainger Stadium will again host one of the fiercest battles of this year's baseball season as teams from the United States Naval Academy and the United States Air Force Academy face each other in a three-game competition for bragging rights. This year marks the 12th Freedom Classic baseball competition involving U.S. service academies.

The first game will begin at 6 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 24. The first pitch for Saturday's contest is scheduled for 2 p.m., and the Sunday game will start at 12:30 p.m. The pre-game ceremonies 20 minutes before each game will offer exciting festivities designed to show appreciation for our military service personnel and veterans.

Organizers have arranged for flyovers on Saturday and Sunday. On Saturday, F15 Strike Eagles will fly over the stadium before the game begins. Sunday will feature a flyover by the Bandit Flight Team. Woodmen Life will also provide a flag display on the field before the first pitch.

Vice Commander Col. Silver, representing Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, will throw out the first pitch on Saturday. Pre-game displays will be placed around Grainger Stadium. These displays will include helicopters, Jeeps, and other military vehicles. A variety of veteran groups are responsible for these displays.

Since concession stands will be open for these games, make plans for a proper outing.

All active military personnel will receive free admission, regardless of branch of service. Retired military personnel and their dependents and all veterans and their families will receive discounted admission of $3.00.

Adults (18 and above) can watch the games for a $5.00 admission fee. Young people four to 17, senior citizens, and students all receive the discounted admission of $3.00. Children three and under are admitted free.

Anyone interested in seeing all games can purchase a tournament pass for $15.00.

Box seats are also available for those who plan to attend all the games with their families and friends. For $125, you can get nine box seats good for all three games. To arrange for box seats, call 252-939-3332. You can purchase advanced single games tickets, three-game passes, and box seats at the Kinston Community Center. Only a few box seats are available, so get your tickets early.

Putting on the Freedom Classic is an expensive endeavor. Between players, coaches, trainers, and other personnel, each team brings between 40 to 45 people. Freedom Classic revenues go into a designated account that pays the expenses the teams incur. The Freedom Classic picks up the tab for motel accommodations, meals, and marketing expenses.

The Freedom Classic also provides motel accommodations and meals for those involved in special activities, such as fly-overs and playing in bands. Monies not needed for current expenses go into a special fund held in reserve for the next Freedom Classic.

The weather forecast indicates a chance of rain Friday, but Saturday and Sunday promise to be sunny and cool. Make plans to support the Freedom Classic with your attendance – and enthusiasm.

Seize the opportunity to see the spirit and determination of the latest Naval and Air Force officers in training.

Mike Parker is a columnist for the Neuse News. You can reach him at mparker16@gmail.com.