If you’re looking for a fun way to honor our military and veterans, join us on Saturday, Jan. 17 at the Bowdoin College annual men’s hockey game at Sidney Wilson Arena in Brunswick, 27 Watson Drive. It’s all about recognizing the men and women of our armed forces and all who have served. Faceoff is at 3 p.m. This event brings together local veteran service organizations, including Maine Veterans in Need (MVN), the American Legion, VFW, and the Military Officers Association of America (MOAA), all with information tables to share they support the military, veterans and connect with the community. During intermission, the excitement heats up with a “chuck-a-puck” fundraiser. Not familiar with it? Neither was I, until I looked it up! Fans buy a numbered puck and toss it onto the ice toward a target. The closest puck wins a prize, and this year the proceeds benefit Paws For Vets, a Brunswick-based nonprofit pairing and train rescued dogs with veterans dealing with PTSD and other mental health challenges.

And the fun doesn’t stop there. American Legion Post 202, Topsham, hosts their Winter Classic Softball Tournament, on Valentine’s Day, Feb. 14 at their Legion ball field. The event is also MVN’s major annual fundraiser. This isn’t your ordinary softball tournament, how can it be, it’s in the snow! The rules are wild, the balls are neon bright, and snow-covered outfields can turn a routine play into a double, like if the ball is lost in the s  now! No sliding? No problem, base-running rules are flexible. Strikeouts and walks might be adjusted to keep the game moving, after all, it’s cold! Teams from across Maine compete, each donating $200 to play. Last year, the Maine Bureau of Veterans Services fielded a team, with the State’s Adjutant General, General Diane Dunn, at shortstop. I’m hoping the Maine National Guard will have their own team this year. I’m pretty sure the MBVS will, I volunteered to be their catcher. Yup, an 83-year-old catcher who can’t throw a ball 10 feet will be the catcher! So if you want to see some spirited, cold-weather fun, it’s worth the trip! To register a team, contact Bobby Lemont, Post 202, at 837-8556, or reach out to me. The Winter Classic is also seeking sponsors, starting at $500, where sponsor can hang their banners on the ball field fence or inside the building. In addition, inside the Legion Hall that day, you’ll find tables from the VA, Honor Flight, Easter Seals, and other veteran service organizations. You can start a VA disability claim and sign up for Honor Flight!

Every puck thrown at the hockey game will help give veterans the service dogs they need. Every softball swung, will help prevent veteran homelessness, aiding those who are homeless, and helping reduce veteran suicide. So, whether you’re cheering at the hockey game, tossing a puck, or playing in the softball tournament, come out, have fun, support our heroes, and make a real difference.