Armada FC Train At NAS Jax Ahead Of Military Appreciation Night

As a precursor for Military Appreciation Night scheduled for this Saturday, the Jacksonville Armada FC held its practice on the Naval Air Station Jacksonville base on Tuesday evening.

Military men and women and their families were invited to watch the Armada FC practice. NAS Jax Commanding Officer Capt. Howard Wanamaker addressed the team before practice, and Armada FC players signed autographs and took photos with attendees after training.

Armada FC President Steve Livingstone said it is one of many ways the club will honor local military members this week.

“It is a true honor for the Armada FC to be able to recognize the brave men and women in Jacksonville that have dedicated their lives to protecting our freedoms,” Livingstone said. “While we could never repay them for their sacrifice, being able to hold a practice on Naval Air Station Jacksonville’s base, and honoring our military members during our upcoming match, are proud moments for our club.  Our club was designed to be a tribute to our military, and we are thrilled to be welcomed onto base to spend some time with these men and women and their families.”

Military roots run deep for the Armada FC.  Since announcing the club’s name in February 2014, a nod to the community’s heritage and strong military connection, the Armada FC have been committed to giving back to Jacksonville’s brave men and women.  The club’s colors reflect Jacksonville’s close links to the area’s U.S. Navy installations.  And the logo, a powerful ship’s anchor and shield, are yet another way the club honors military members every time the players take the pitch.  

“It is always a pleasure to welcome our local athletes aboard NAS Jacksonville," Wanamaker said.  "It is a particular pleasure to welcome the Armada team. Athletic excellence and sportsmanship is an inspiration to our community. They are the professionals who set a shining example for our youth, and I feel privileged to welcome them to NAS Jax."

NAS Jax Morale, Welfare, and Recreation Director John Bushick added, "Special thanks to Team Armada for visiting the personnel of NAS Jacksonville Team. There is no better way to support excellence than through athletic competition."

The Armada FC will be honoring all five branches of the armed forces throughout Military Appreciation Night, and members of the military will raise the Armada FC flag and join the captains at midfield for the ceremonial coin toss prior to kickoff.  In addition, 30 members of the Fleming Island NJROTC will hold a large U.S. flag at midfield for the national anthem. At the end of the national anthem, fans will be able to look up to the sky and see a thrilling flyover from three MH-60R “Romeo” helicopters conducted by Mayport Naval Station squadron HSM-48 VIPERS.