Northern Kentucky Blue Star Mothers

Hands out some sandals to a young Iraqi student at the Umm Hujul School Opening

(Photo by 2nd Lt. Stacy Roberts)

The Thank You Foundation and the Cincinnati Reds Honor Sgt Tyler Bowling, Iraq War Veteran

Scott High School Graduate throws out ceremonial first pitch


CINCINNATI - July 4th 2008 - With a flick of the wrist, Sergeant Tyler Bowling of Taylor Mill Kentucky fulfilled a fantasy of every American sports fan as he threw out a ceremonial first pitch on Friday, July 4th at Great American Ball Park.

For the second year in a row the Reds and The Thank You Foundation have teamed up to offer this opportunity to a local hometown hero.

Bowling who is currently serving his second tour in Iraq, along with Iraqi Freedom Veteran Army Specialist Dan Hogan and World War II Veteran Bill Baily all received a Certificate of Appreciation from the Foundation and a standing ovation form the crowd at Great American Ballpark. Bowling also received a $100 gift certificate to the Montgomery Inn Boathouse also courtesy of The Thank You Foundation.

Specialist Dan Hogan and Sergeant Bowling

WWII Veteran Bill Baily

Bowling arrived back in the U.S. on Wednesday and brought members of his family and friend Brandon Burks, currently serving in the U.S. Navy, along to watch the festivities. After a rain delay of over an hour and 45 minutes Sgt Bowling went up to the mound and tossed a strike to Red's catcher David Ross.

Sergeant Tyler Bowling and Brandon Burks

Ross congratulates Bowling on a job well done


The Reds went on to win the game 3-0 behind a strong pitching performance by Bronson Arroyo and a first inning 2 run homer by Ken Griffey Jr.

The Independence Day celebration kicked off a weekend of activities at Great American Ball Park and Major League Baseball's Welcome Back Veterans imitative which helps to address the needs of returning American Veterans.

Last year U.S. Marine Sean Hassler threw out the ceremonial first pitch after arriving home from Iraq just one week prior to the game.

Bowling with Reds cheerleaders

Bowling talks with Reds catcher David Ross

Bowling and David Ross

United States Commander in Chief with Troops
President Bush having lunch with Troops at Camp Lejeune, SC-Tim Gries at the far right