The Dodgers welcomed approximately 350 active and retired members of the United States military and their families into an under-construction Dodger Stadium on Monday for a day filled with playing catch and batting practice on the field at Dodger Stadium, photos and autographs, and of course Dodger Dogs as part of their Veteran’s Day Batting Practice event held each year on Veteran’s Day.

The event, which was presented by the Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health, featured guest appearances by Dodgers alumni Fernando Valenzuela, Ron Cey, Tommy Davis, Billy Ashley, and Dennis Powell, and included a Q and A session with Dodgers infielder Gavin Lux and popular SportsNet LA broadcaster Joe Davis.

“This is an opportunity for us to entertain them, take care of them a little bit for the day, give back to them for their service,” said former Dodger great Ron Cey. “Many of these veterans have a lot of tragic stories to tell, a lot of nightmarish dreams to go through, the mental health of these people is tested.

“We’re trying to give them a day here where they can get away from all of that; come out here and play a game that a lot of these guys grew up playing. It’s baseball,” Cey added. “You see families, you see the kids, you see the dogs, you see the veterans, it’s a nice way to get some happiness back in their life a little bit.”

“For Gavin and I both … this is special for us,” SportsNet LA’s Joe Davis said to the veterans and their families. “To be able to give back to you guys who we are so thankful to, so thankful for, everything you guys have done and do for us, our country, so thank you guys. I know it’s special for you but thank you from the bottom of both of our hearts.”

Former Dodger great and current Dodgers Spanish broadcaster Fernando Valenzuela was also on-hand to sign autographs and pose for photographs with the veterans and their families, several of whom were very young.

The entire staff at ThinkBlueLA also extends our sincerest gratitude and appreciation to those who have or currently are serving in our armed forces around the world.

Thank you and may God protect you always.

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