Operation Cherrybend in Clinton County was honored as a “Hometown Heroes” during the Dayton Dragons game Thursday night. The Dragons shine the spotlight on the military, past and present, through the program.

The mission of Operation Cherrybend is to thank veterans for their courage, selflessness, and sacrifice to our country. Through that, they also hope to educate the general public about the trials and challenges of wounded veterans and veterans in general.

Operation Cherrybend is made up of volunteers who are dedicated to supporting those veterans long after their uniform has come off.

Each year, Operation Cherrybend hosts a five-day, invitation-only event for combat veterans to bond with other veterans like them through music, outdoor adventure, and fellowship.

Shown along with the Dragons’ mascots are, from left with a $1,000 check from the Dayton Dragons Foundation, Dave Burrows (Dayton Development Coalition); Beth Ellis and Jessica Debold of Operation Cherrybend; and Clint Cargill of Reynolds & Reynolds.

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Nick Falzerano photo | Courtesy of Dayton Dragons