3rd Military World Games Come to a Close
By: Journalist First Class, Lucy M. Quinn
Photos by:
Photographers Mate Third Class Sally Mendez
NAS Sigonella, Public AffairsCATANIA, Sicily (Dec. 11, 2003) – The closing ceremonies of the 3rd Military World Games today were not dampened by daylong rains. Once again, Catania opened its arms to embrace military athletes from 86 nations, to say thank you, and “Arrivederci” (goodbye).
The closing ceremonies were held indoors because of the rain. Athletes, coaches, officials and fans gathered to celebrate the “friendship of sports” fostered at the games, sponsored by the International Military Sports Counsel (CISM).
Free now from training and competition, many athletes crowded around a lone souvenir stand sorting through T-shirts, buying mementos of the games. An Italian military brass band signaled the start of the ceremonies and every one settled into their seats.
Gone were the track clothes, basketball uniforms, swimsuits, etc., that were the “uniform of the day” for the past week. The athlete-soldiers and sailors were once again in the military uniforms of their countries. They were not grouped together by nation, as in the opening ceremonies, instead they sat wherever they wanted. The view of the athletes from the upper-level was of shades of brown, blue, grey, green, and red, mixed together, looking like a patchwork quilt.
Navy Chief Petty Officer John Blondin, from San Diego, Calif., carried in the U.S. flag. Blondin, stationed in San Diego, played on the men’s volleyball team. A representative from each nation in attendance stood proudly with their flag as dignitaries congratulated organizers and participants. The mayor of Catania wished all “good luck, good luck to the world.”
The 4th Military Games will be held in 2007 at a location to be determined.