OPINION: Show of Respect From Enfield Little Leaguers Appreciated

ENFIELD, CT — A ceremony in Powder Hollow Park marking the start of the Enfield American Legion baseball season Monday generated emotion from more than 400 feet away, as some youngsters demonstrated a classy show of respect for their community and their country.

After the U19 Legion teams from Enfield and Danielson were introduced (by me as the public address announcer, for complete disclosure), an honor guard from the Tanguay-Magill American Legion Post 80 marched behind the pitching mound, followed by a stirring rendition of the national anthem by former Enfield Legion and Trinity College catcher Chris Giottonini.

Not only did the players remain at attention with their hats off during the ceremony, but in the far distance, on an adjacent Little League field located beyond the right field fence, something caught my eye. Two teams from the Enfield AAA Little League, representing the Knights of Columbus and Major League Consulting, were warming up for their game, but as the veterans marched onto the large diamond, the younger players stopped in their tracks, removed their caps and stood at attention until the honor guard had departed the field.

One of the Little League coaches, Tim Norris, said, "My team turned on their own. Not sure if they followed me because I turned. It seemed to me everyone, both teams turned, fans turned. I loved it!"

Whether the kids were told to do it by their coaches, or followed the lead of their coach, or just did it on their own, it means a great deal to this son of an Air Force veteran of the Korean War to see that kind of respect for the flag and the country offered by youngsters that age. Thank you, Enfield Little League, for making your community proud, and for giving me yet another reason to smile.

(Tim Norris)