Jessica Amesquita (L) and Andrew Santellan (R) take the oath at SeaWorldWhat a great military day at SeaWorld San Antonio. I have always been honored to be the military representative for our park but today could not have made me prouder. SeaWorld hosted a special swearing-in ceremony at Shamu Theater today.
Imagine this. On this bright, sunny morning, 175 young men and women are sitting in the front rows of the theater. Families are seated and getting their cameras ready to capture this moment. Everyone in the theater gets on their feet as the flag of the United States comes into view. What a wonderful sight to see the flag held high by Leslie, a SeaWorld trainer, on Shamu. (I don't think I was the only person with goosebumps.)
Marine Corps Colonel Mark Rayfield came on stage to administer the Oath of Induction. Cameras flashed as the young people raised their right hand and swore to serve and protect our country. I saw fathers bursting with pride, mothers with a little tear in their eyes and young brothers and sisters waving little flags. Our other park guests cheered and showed their support for the newest members of our armed forces. What a great pre-show for Believe!
I am so proud to be a part of a company that supports our troops. The company's "Here's to the Heroes" program, sponsored by Budweiser, provides a single-day's free admission to any one SeaWorld or Busch Gardens park, Sesame Place, Adventure Island or Water Country USA for the service member and as many as three of his or her direct dependents. Over more than one million service members and their families have visited our parks under this program. This tribute program was launched in February 2005 and has been extended through 2009. Check it out here.
What a fantastic start to the Memorial Day weekend. Take time to thank somebody who protects your freedom.
Jan
To see more photos of our event, visit our Flickr site
