The Norfolk Tides hosted the 9th annual Navy Night at Harbor Park in Norfolk, Aug. 13, in honor of the men and women of the U.S. Navy.

Rear Adm. Jack Scorby, commander, Navy Region Mid-Atlantic (CNRMA), threw out the first pitch as the Tides took the field dressed in blue digital camouflage.

"Navy Night is a good opportunity to get the Hampton Roads community involved in Navy-related events," said Scorby. "The support we get is outstanding."

Before the game, public interactive displays from Navy Expeditionary Combat Command (NECC) and CNRMA Fire & Rescue were set up outside of the ballpark to educate guests on the Navy's capabilities and positive impact in the region.

"I love the festivities in the beginning and how they include the crowd's participation," said Information Systems Technician 1st Class Gloria Blanchard, assigned to NECC. "It represents unity and it feels good to be recognized for the sacrifices we make."

On the field, fans received a demonstration from Csiko, a military working dog trained to find explosives.

"It went really well," said Master-at-Arms 1st Class Nick Webster, a military working dog trainer assigned to CNRMA. "It was a great chance to showcase our capabilities to the public."

Following the demonstration, a group of future Sailors from the local recruiting district recited the oath of enlistment on the third base line, marking their official entry into the Navy.

"It is rewarding to give the oath of enlistment in the company of people who understand what I will go through to protect this country," said Aleshia Williams. "Being able to swear in with an admiral in front of my family and my daughter made me proud."

The Norfolk Tides are a AAA affiliate of the Baltimore Orioles.

For more information, visit www.navy.mil, www.facebook.com/usnavy, or www.twitter.com/usnavy.

For more news from Navy Public Affairs Support Element, visit www.navy.mil/.