More than 500 sailors from the USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) celebrated Stennis Day at Safeco Field Aug. 7.

Stennis Day, a Morale Welfare and Recreation event, was organized to honor sailors and their family members for both their service and mutual sacrifice.

“This was a great opportunity for our sailors to come out, feel appreciated by the community and have fun at a command sponsored event,” said Stennis’ MWR director, or funboss, Chris Cation. “This was our ninth (Stennis Day) and we are looking forward to coming back next year.”

Capt. Kyle Higgins, Stennis’ executive officer, started the evening by throwing out the first pitch to Stennis’ Command Master Chief Trenton Schmidt.

“This was a great opportunity for sailors and their families to relax outside of the work environment, strengthen friendships and nurture our relationship with the community,” said Schmidt.

Aviation Ordnanceman 3rd Class Brett Cale enjoyed the game and said he could feel the crowd’s support.

“They seem to really appreciate what we do,” said Aviation Ordnanceman 3rd Class Brett Cale. “Most people only see our ship, but this was an opportunity to meet the crew and (they) showed their appreciation.”

Aviation Maintenance Administrationman 3rd Class Jerry Iwan said he was honored by the support from the crowd and the Mariners organization.

“We’re a small group in the pacific northwest,” said Iwan, “so to be honored like this is significant for us.”

For more news from the Stennis visit www.stennis.navy.mil or www.facebook.com/stennis 74.

Stennis Day, a Morale Welfare and Recreation event, was organized to honor sailors and their family members for both their service and mutual sacrifice.

“This was a great opportunity for our sailors to come out, feel appreciated by the community and have fun at a command sponsored event,” said Stennis’ MWR director, or funboss, Chris Cation. “This was our ninth (Stennis Day) and we are looking forward to coming back next year.”

Capt. Kyle Higgins, Stennis’ executive officer, started the evening by throwing out the first pitch to Stennis’ Command Master Chief Trenton Schmidt.

“This was a great opportunity for sailors and their families to relax outside of the work environment, strengthen friendships and nurture our relationship with the community,” said Schmidt.

Aviation Ordnanceman 3rd Class Brett Cale enjoyed the game and said he could feel the crowd’s support.

“They seem to really appreciate what we do,” said Aviation Ordnanceman 3rd Class Brett Cale. “Most people only see our ship, but this was an opportunity to meet the crew and (they) showed their appreciation.”

Aviation Maintenance Administrationman 3rd Class Jerry Iwan said he was honored by the support from the crowd and the Mariners organization.

“We’re a small group in the pacific northwest,” said Iwan, “so to be honored like this is significant for us.”

For more news from the Stennis visit www.stennis.navy.mil or www.facebook.com/stennis 74.