Scott Airmen display flag at Cardinals opener Published April 10, 2013 By Airman Megan Friedl 375th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. -- The St. Louis Cardinals opened their season at Busch Stadium where 40 Scott Air Force Base Airmen presented the American flag during the National Anthem Monday. Fans clapped, gave high-fives and shouted "Thank you for your service" as Airmen took their spots behind center field. Airman 1st Class Bradley Beetz, 375th Communication Squadron, said, "The community support at the Cardinals game was fantastic. It really felt great to be appreciated and thanked by so many people." When the Airmen reached their spot they were given instructions on how to properly handle the flag. Before the National Anthem, Baseball Hall of Famers wearing red blazers drove onto the field waving to the Airmen and others giving salutes and smiles. Next, the Gateway Harmonica Club played the National Anthem as the Airmen stretched out the flag tight. At the finish of the song, quickly and neatly, Airmen folded up the flag. Patrick Spiegel, a Cardinals representative, said, "It was the most seamless execution of the flag ceremony I've seen to this day." Airman 1st Class VickRant Arora, 375th Communication Squadron, said, "I took great pride in this experience while wearing the uniform and holding the American flag. I would greatly like to have this experience again on opening day next year." Thousands of Cardinals fans looked upon the flag and cheered for the Airmen and for all the other servicemembers they represented that day. Capt. William MacVittie, 458th Airlift Squadron, event coordinator, said the flag ceremony was very sharp. "It was great to be able to have this opportunity, and I hope to come out here again."