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Army gets major league support

  • Published
  • By Ryan Morton
  • Army Support Activity-Dix Public Affairs
JOINT BASE MCGUIRE-DIX-LAKEHURST, N.J. --  Representatives from Major League Baseball interviewed Soldiers here April 23 to promote U.S. Army recruitment on its Web site.

"These guys reach out to us and provide us additional advertising we would otherwise have to pay for. The MLB is really reaching out and we really appreciate the support and added value in our marketing campaign," said Ken Walsh, direct marketing manager at U.S. Army Accessions Command, Fort Knox, Ky.

The Army buys advertising space with the MLB promoting the "Army Strong" campaign and MLB chipped in to help the Army further by giving the Army $2.2 million, according to Walsh.

Aiding the MLB in their efforts is former MLB relief pitcher Jeff Nelson who conducted the interviews with the Soldiers. He asked the troops about places they've been stationed and what inspired them to join. He also questioned the Soldiers about the biggest challenges they've faced in the Army, what types of opportunities the Army has afforded them, and if they would recommend joining the military to someone else. Nelson then asked the Soldiers more baseball focused questions including their best baseball-related memory and which MLB player they feel best exemplifies leadership.

"I was interested in doing public service and showing what the troops do for us. I've been to Afghanistan and Iraq and basically want to thank them for what they do. It's a job I feel not many people thank them enough for and take for granted. I want to let them know they are appreciated," said Nelson, who resides in Seattle, Wash.

The relationship MLB has with the Army is cherished, according to Jim Jenks, MLB.com vice president and executive producer.

"The Army and baseball have a lot of similarities in that success is built around teamwork and achieving goals towards building something special. It's a good relationship," said Jenks.

The Soldiers participating in the interviews were from the 301st and 302nd Information Operations Battalions, which are Army Reserve units from Fort Totten, N.Y., and were conducting their weekend drill training qualifying with their M-16 rifles here.

The Reservists said it was a thrill for them to see Nelson, as many of the Soldiers in this unit are N.Y. Yankees fans. Nelson pitched for them on their World Championship teams in 1996, and from 1998 to 2000. Among the fans is Lt. Col. Molly McGlaughlin, from Marion, Mass., and the 301st IO Battalion commander, who said she appreciates the support MLB gives to the Army.

"I think it's a great avenue for promoting the military and recruitment efforts. The Army core values are similar to the values MLB represents to America. It's nice to have this opportunity to interact with some of their favorite MLB players. It's a nice thank you for the Soldiers," said McGlaughlin.