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thedrifter
09-02-04, 06:28 AM
Marines serve up proud start for U.S. Open
Submitted by: New York City Public Affairs
Story Identification #: 2004831154816
Story by Lt. Col. Tim Hoyle



NEW YORK (Aug. 31, 2004) -- Marines from 6th Communications Battalion and Company A, 6th Communications Battalion helped kickoff what organizers described as the most watched sporting event in America --the U.S. Open.

The Marines unfurled a large American flag over the court inside Arthur Ashe Stadium as the Afro-Latin Jazz Orchestra played the national anthem and fireworks lit the night sky.

“It was an outstanding experience, especially with the president’s dad being there,” said Staff Sgt. Erich Cuadros, Company A supply chief. “I didn’t even realize he was there until he took my hand as we were going by and said ‘We’re very proud of you, we’re always proud of the Marines.”

Unfurling such a large flag was no easy task. One of the officials told Cuadros that the flag they were using is the largest one in the northeastern United States. Cuadros said the size made it tougher to control the flag when it caught the wind. But the Marines had practiced with the flag from 11 a.m. until 6 p.m., so they well prepared. He said that many of guests attending the Open applauded them as the two columns of Marines marched toward the stadium for the practice sessions. Cuadros said his Marines found the experience to be very rewarding and told him they were proud to take part.

The opening ceremony also served as a tribute to the six Olympic tennis medallists present, which included American Mardy Fish, 2004 silver medallist in men’s singles. President George W. Bush Sr., and first lady Barbara Bush introduced the Olympic athletes. According to U.S. Open sources, Bush is a great fan of tennis. His great uncles Joe and Art Wear captured bronze medals for men’s doubles at the 1904 Olympics.

The Marines were followed by a match between Serena Williams and Sandra Kleinova. The second match of the evening featured Andre Agassi and Robby Ginepri.

http://www.usmc.mil/marinelink/image1.nsf/Lookup/2004831155347/$file/Flag-Web.jpg

Marines of 6th Communications Battalion unfurl the flag to begin the U.S. Open at Arthur Ashe Stadium in Flushing, N.Y. Photo by: LtCol Tim Hoyle

http://www.usmc.mil/marinelink/mcn2000.nsf/main5/B253AB9A1C33208B85256F01006CCA2D?opendocument


Ellie