On Tuesday, Chris Birch of the Biloxi Shuckers was announced as the inaugural recipient of the Southern League’s Patriot Award. To many, the award came as no surprise. After all, Birch has already made a name for himself working within military programs aimed at promoting closer ties with civilians. He has even been made an honorary commander of one of its squadrons.

On receiving the news, Chris humbly termed the award and his work a privilege and an opportunity to align the aspirations of both the team and military with those of baseball. To say Chris has made an impact on his community would be an understatement. As a direct result of his influence, the Shuckers recognize and applaud those in the service as well as their families during their games. Furthermore, the business community provides tickets to military trainees at his prompting, and offers free clinics to military families.

Chris has also has partnered with the service to design jerseys for auction during Shuckers’ games. The proceeds then go to military charities.

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