Upon departing my car, I noticed two young men dressed in what can best be described as camouflaged baseball uniforms. I approach the two lads and inquired, “Boys, what do we have going on here?” One young man responded, “Sir, we are members of the U.S. Military All Stars Youth Baseball Team, and we are asking for donations to help sponsor our team.” “Sponsor your team,” I repeated. “Well, what’s with the camouflaged uniforms?” The other young man was quick to respond, “Sir, we wear the camouflage, the yellow ribbon and the names of military events and units to honor the service and sacrifice of our service members and veterans.”

Needless to say, I was thoroughly impressed. I looked over at the lady who was chaperoning their endeavor and gave little smile, letting her know that I wasn’t finished with my Q&A just yet. I then inquired, “Well, what military events or units are you honoring?” The first lad turned around and on the back of his uniform stood the words Iwo Jima. I smiled and said to the second lad, “And you?”

When he turned around the word Ranger was inscribed on his uniform. Rarely, am I at a loss for words but I could feel a rush of emotions streaming upward. I fought to collect myself in front of these fine young men and said, “Rangers huh, you know I know a little about that.” The young man responded, “Yes sir, I can see you do.”

I quickly introduced myself, made a donation, and asked their names. Tyler Melik represented Iwo Jima and Joseph Ciaccone represented the Rangers. Their chaperone was Joseph’s (Joey’s) mom Elizabeth Ciaccone.

She explained that the rest of the team was working the Stuart Air Show that weekend. Additionally, she said that the team routinely did things to honor those that served and are serving in the military including greeting Honor Flights, which are free flight for World War II Great Generation veterans to visit the WWII Memorial.

I told them what an honor and a pleasure it was to meet them, and asked if it would be alright if I wrote a little something about the U.S. Military All Stars Youth Baseball Team. They said yes. So here you go.

The U.S. Military All Stars Youth Baseball Team is a competitive travel baseball team where players develop baseball skill and build character through hard work and team work. The team is based in Palm City, and has been together for two years.

Recently, the team was adopted by the U.S. Military All Stars Semi-Pro team and is one of only two teams in the USA to fall under their banner.

Austin Dente is the team’s head coach and manager and is looking for community support of these fine young men. For more information, please contact Dente at 772-215-6056.