Dragons Veteran Salute Program, presented by CareSource Military & Veterans, continues in 2027

DAYTON, OHIO – The Dayton Dragons and CareSource Military & Veterans are continuing their commitment for the Veteran Salute program, an initiative to honor, recognize, and support Miami Valley veterans at Dayton Dragons home games throughout 2026.

Selected veterans will be recognized at a Dayton Dragons home game during an inning break at Day Air Ballpark in 2027. Each veteran receives VIP treatment during their night including in-game recognition, a luxury suite, food and beverage, a special gift, and more. Since 2019, CareSource and the Dayton Dragons have honored over 35 local veterans and their families with a special experience at the ballpark.

“We are thrilled to once again partner with the Dayton Dragons to honor local veterans, share their stories and express our gratitude for their service,” said Holly Joers, President of CareSource Military & Veterans. "At CareSource, we take great pride in serving our military community and are dedicated to supporting their health and wellness."

In honor of Veterans Day, here are the 2026 Veteran Salute honorees:

Specialist Fourth Class John Webb – Army (1965-1967): John served in Vietnam, where he established teletype communications for the Americal Division and risked his life to help wounded soldiers during a mortar attack, earning the Bronze Star with “V” device for valor and the Purple Heart. He later dedicated 50 years of service to the Department of Defense at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base.

Master Sergeant Nikki Gordon – Air Force (1998-2019): She completed technical school and served in five deployments to Iraq, Afghanistan, the United Arab Emirates, and Kuwait, along with assignments in Italy, England, South Korea, and across the United States. She received numerous awards and commendations, including the Bronze Star for her vigilance and dedication while serving in the dangerous conditions of Kabul.

Petty Officer First Class John Sostrom – Navy (1968-1977): He trained as a Fire Control Technician specializing in missiles and served aboard the USS Dewey and USS Preble, completing three combat tours in the North Atlantic and Vietnam, including search and rescue operations. After being wounded by a rocket during his third tour, he recovered and returned to serve as an instructor, earning numerous honors, including two Bronze Stars, the Navy Combat Action Ribbon, and the Vietnam Service Medal.

Corporal Bill Greenaway – Marine Corps (1952-1960): He completed boot camp in San Diego and served as a Telephone Repairman in California and Korea, supporting essential military communications. After two years of active duty, he served six years in the Marine Corps Reserve, retiring as a Corporal with honors including the National Defense Service Medal and Korean Service Medal.

Chief Master Sergeant Bill Millar – Air Force (1978-2015): He served at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, the Air Force Orientation Group, and later the 445th Aerospace Medical Squadron, where he supported humanitarian missions across the U.S. and internationally, often treating more than 100 patients a day. He became a Senior Medic in the Air Force Reserve in 1996 and retired in 2015 as a Chief Master Sergeant, earning numerous honors and commendations.

“We’re honored to work alongside CareSource Military & Veterans to celebrate those who have served through the Veteran Salute program,” said Robert Murphy, President of the Dayton Dragons. “This partnership allows us to recognize them and tell their story of service to our country.”

Nominations for the Veteran Salute program are open to the public. Any living military veteran from the Miami Valley is eligible to be nominated. To nominate a veteran, go to www.daytondragons.com/veteransalute