SAN ANTONIO – (Aug. 20, 2026) – The San Antonio Missions hosted a Military Appreciation Day game at Nelson Wolff Stadium on Aug. 9, where the Missions defeated the Springfield Cardinals 7-4, winning the series for the first time since 2021.

During post-game festivities, 20th District Commander Billy Hill of Fred Brock American Legion Post 828 had the distinct honor of throwing the ceremonial first pitch.

The first pitch is a ceremonial throw that happens before a baseball game officially begins. The honoree, often a local leader, celebrity, sponsor or community member, is invited onto the field to throw a baseball from near the pitcher’s mound toward home plate.

“It was a great feeling to actually be on the field again,” said Hill, a retired U.S. Navy master chief. “My childhood dream was to be a left-handed pitcher in the World Series. This was the closest I've ever been to that goal.”

Hill and his wife were invited to the game by the Legionnaires of Audie L. Murphy American Legion Post 336.

“This was an opportunity for The American Legion to actively engage with the community, veterans and youth while demonstrating the Americanism we stand for as an organization,” said Hill. “I would do it again and again if given the opportunity.”

On Aug. 12, Hill, who was duly installed as the “Mighty” 20th District commander at the 107th Department Convention in July, convened his first bi-monthly district meeting at Bicentennial American Legion Post 579.

The “Mighty” 20th District, comprised of 17 posts with approximately 6,000 members, serves veterans, active-duty servicemembers, and communities across the San Antonio and Bexar County area with the 3rd Division, Department of Texas.