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Fairchild AFB Helps Spokane Indians Earn MiLB 2021 Organization of the Year

  • Published
  • By 92nd Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs
  • 92nd Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs
FAIRCHILD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash. --  Minor League Baseball announced today the Spokane Indians as 2021 Organization of the Year, due to their partnership with Fairchild Air Force Base for Operation Fly Together.

The Spokane Indians claimed their first Organization of the Year Award after setting a franchise record in sponsorship sales, posting a 95% increase in online ticket sales and partnering with Fairchild Air Force Base for a program that generated national attention and was critically acclaimed.

Fairchild Air Force Base's partnership with the Indians became known as Operation Fly Together and celebrates the KC-135 Stratotanker and the Airmen serving on the base, as well as the thousands of veterans from all branches of the Armed Forces who reside in the Spokane community.

On “Fairchild Fridays,” the Indians wear special uniforms designed to look like the dress blue uniforms worn by Airmen. The uniforms were auctioned off with the proceeds going to local veteran organizations through the Operation Fly Together Fund. Additionally, a Fairchild Family of the Game is recognized on the field at each Operation Fly Together game.

Fairchild is proud to partner with a community organization that aims to better the lives of servicemembers in the local Spokane Community.

“I'm amazed by the Spokane Indians and everything they do for the military,” said Col. Cassius Bentley, 92nd Air Refueling Wing commander. “Being able to show their team first-hand how incredible our Airmen and aircraft are further showcases our mission and the capabilities we have, and that makes this partnership even stronger. They undoubtedly earned this prestigious award.”

“The Spokane Indians Baseball Club is overwhelmed with gratitude at being named the Organization of the Year by Minor League Baseball,” said Indians Vice President Otto Klein. “It’s a true testament to our outstanding front office and gameday teams, as well as our community partners and fans. There are 120 outstanding organizations, and to be selected alongside so many clubs that we respect and admire is an honor and we look forward to continuing to provide affordable family entertainment and positively impacting our community for years to come.”