Flying Tigers to Honor Military Heroes on Saturday, May 17

Beginning on Armed Forces Day, Saturday, May 17^th, the Lakeland Flying Tigers will honor an original Flying Tiger in a season long tribute. Dick Rossi passed away on Thursday, April 17^th. To recognize his service and dedication to our country, the Flying Tigers will wear a patch containing his last name, “Rossi,” on the right sleeve of their camouflage jerseys. The jerseys will be worn this Saturday and every Thursday the Flying Tigers play at Joker Marchant Stadium in Lakeland this season. The Flying Tigers front office staff will also be wearing special shirts with “Rossi” on the right sleeve as well.

Shortly before the start of World War II, Rossi joined the Flying Tigers, pilots who traveled to China to defend our nation against attacks by the Japanese. Even though the Flying Tigers fought for less than a year, Rossi was credited for shooting down six Japanese planes. After the volunteer group disbanded, Rossi served as the president of the Flying Tigers Association for 65 years. During this time, he often shared his experiences and spoke about the Flying Tigers in interviews and air shows throughout the United States.

Rossi, along with all veterans, active, and future military will be honored this Saturday, May 17^th, during a very special “Armed Forces Extravaganza.” During this event, the Flying Tigers and 1430 WLKF will welcome home Air Force Major Susan Romano from Iraq. Gates will open at 3:00 p.m. The festivities will begin at 4:00 p.m. with live music from Buck Hummer and the Pick-Ups, presentations, ceremonies, and much more. At 6:00 p.m., the Flying Tigers will square off against the Dunedin Blue Jays. The evening will conclude with a patriotic fireworks show presented by The Ledger and 97 Country WPCV following the game (weather permitting).

Tickets for all Flying Tigers home games can be purchased online at www.LakelandFlyingTigers.com or at the Joker Marchant Stadium Box Office located at 2301 Lakeland Hills Boulevard in Lakeland. Box office hours are Monday-Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tickets can also be purchased this Saturday, May 17^th beginning at 2 p.m. For more information, please call the Flying Tigers at (863) 686-8075.