My girlfriend is from Newtown, CT. Her father is part of the task force assigned to figuring out the future of Sandy Hook Elementary and what to do with the land/building. The Boston Red Sox, who are no stranger to tragedy, extended a invitation to the friends and families of the victims of Newtown, and I was lucky enough to be a part of the wonderful experience.
In addition to giving us a game winning comeback in the bottom of the 8th, followed by a successful save by Andrew Bailey, the Red Sox bused us all out to the park, gave us free tickets, hats, and food vouchers, and allowed us access to the championship club where we could keep our stuff safe and take a break from the relentless rain. But most importantly, they made dreams come true and raised some dampened spirits by inviting all of their guests onto the field after the game. Then, as if this wasn't enough, the majority of the roster, including Dustin Pedroia, David Ortiz, Jacoby Ellsbury, Jon Lester, Clay Buchholz, and more, joined everybody on the field and shook hands, signed autographs, and took pictures for nearly an hour.
Some of the more emotional moments involved a set of parents taking pictures with players, while holding a portrait of their fallen daughter, the pinning of a green ribbon to Big Papi's jacket, which insipired a round of applause from onlookers, and the handing out of Newtown Police Department badges to all of the players. The event was extremely well run and was a great experience, overall. I know I speak for everyone who involved when I say thank you, Boston. You never fail to renew my love for your city. #BostonStrong
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