Note: we are republishing this story which originally made the news in October 2017. Every afternoon at Malmstrom Air Force Base in Great Falls, Montana, a deeply ingrained ritual unfolds. As the clock strikes 4:30 p.m., the stirring strains of the national anthem echo across the base, while the iconic stars and stripes gracefully descend from their lofty perch, casting a patriotic aura over the base and the bustling city below.
Directly opposite the base lies the Seibel Soccer Park, a familiar stomping ground for the Great Falls High and CM Russell teams. Here, amidst the spirited drills and intense matches, a remarkable tradition takes center stage. Like clockwork, the Bison and Rustlers halt their activities, turning towards the east with hands solemnly placed over their hearts, a poignant display of reverence for the anthem and the flag it represents.
This past Tuesday afternoon, as the Bison girls faced off against Butte in a Class AA playoff showdown, the familiar strains of the anthem filled the air at the customary 4:30 p.m. hour. Amidst the fervor of the 1-0 game, both teams paused in unison. With the head referee halting the play clock for a brief moment, players and spectators alike stood in solemn tribute to the flag that symbolizes the nation’s values and sacrifices.
And then, as swiftly as it had paused, the game resumed, with renewed vigor and a sense of unity among players and fans alike.
According to CMR girls coach Willie Pyette, this tradition is deeply rooted in respect rather than politics. It’s a practice that he initiated two years ago when he assumed leadership of the Rustler program and relocated practices to Seibel. For Pyette and his team, honoring the anthem is a heartfelt gesture of gratitude to the brave men and women of Malmstrom Air Force Base and beyond.
“I have our team pause, stand at attention, and pay homage to the anthem,” Pyette shared with Fox News. “Then, we resume our practice, united in our shared respect for our country and those who serve it.”
This unique tradition serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring spirit of patriotism that runs deep within the Great Falls community. It transcends the boundaries of sports and politics, uniting players, coaches, and spectators in a shared moment of reverence for the nation and its defenders.
As long as soccer games are played in the afternoon at Seibel Soccer Park, this tradition will endure—a testament to the unwavering patriotism and camaraderie that define the Great Falls community.
NO COPYRIGHT INTENDED (ALL RIGHTS RESERVED TO THE AUTHOR OF THE VIDEO) [Youtube/Montana Sports]
Sources: Montana Sports / Opposing Views
