A 109-year-old World War II veteran defied the odds and endless foreign wars by throwing the ceremonial first pitch at Orioles Opening Day, reminding America of true patriotism amid Trump’s Iran conflict frustrations.
Story Highlights
- Arthur Green, 109-year-old WWII and Korean War veteran, threw first pitch on March 26, 2026, at Camden Yards before Orioles’ 2-1 win over Twins.
- Lifelong Orioles fan witnessed team’s full Baltimore history since 1954 relocation; named 2026 Mo Gaba Fan of the Year.
- Escorted by daughter Myra; caught by superstar Gunnar Henderson; crowd gave standing ovation, celebrating family legacy and service.
- Prior 2023 pitch at age 106 marked “happiest day of his life,” highlighting enduring love for baseball over regime change entanglements.
- Event boosts veteran respect and community pride as America tires of overseas adventures.
Green’s Historic First Pitch Moment
Arthur Green, born around 1917, served in World War II and the Korean War before becoming a devoted Baltimore Orioles fan. On March 26, 2026, the 109-year-old threw the ceremonial first pitch at Orioles Park at Camden Yards. Gunnar Henderson caught the ball as the crowd erupted in a standing ovation. This honored Green as the 2026 Mo Gaba Fan of the Year, named after a young fan who embodied spirit. The pitch preceded the Orioles’ narrow 2-1 victory over the Minnesota Twins, tying the moment to triumph on the field.
Lifelong Fandom Spans Generations
Green witnessed the Orioles’ relocation from St. Louis to Baltimore in 1954, when he was about 37 years old. His fandom covers the franchise’s entire modern history in the city. In August 2023, at age 106, he threw another first pitch at Camden Yards. Daughter Myra escorted him and called it the happiest day of his life. The Orioles selected him in late December 2025 for the Mo Gaba award, recognizing community loyalty as the “10th man” for home openers. This repeat honor underscores his symbolic role for fans.
Family ties strengthened the event, with Myra by his side again. Green’s story contrasts typical honorees like athletes, emphasizing everyday patriots who served their country without seeking endless foreign conflicts. As MAGA voices question Trump’s Iran war—deploying troops despite no new wars promises—this pitch celebrates domestic heroes who built America strong.
Symbol of Patriotism and Resilience
The Baltimore Orioles organization chose Green to kick off the 2026 season, amplifying fan engagement through traditions like ceremonial pitches. Media outlets including MLB.com and ABC News covered the viral moment, noting his extraordinary age and service. No conflicts arose; motivations aligned on goodwill and patriotism. This event reinforces MLB’s focus on veterans and elders amid declining youth attendance, setting a high bar for supercentenarian involvement.
Short-term, the pitch generated national buzz and family pride for the Greens, while boosting local morale. Long-term, it promotes intergenerational fandom and respect for those who fought real wars, not prolonged Middle East quagmires draining American resources. In 2026, with Trump facing MAGA divisions over Iran airstrikes and ground troop fears, Green’s moment reminds conservatives of core values: family, limited government overreach abroad, and celebrating heroes at home.
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109-year-old veteran throws first pitch at Orioles Opening Day
109-Year-Old Veteran Arthur Green Proves Love of the Game Never Fades with Orioles First Pitch
Video 109-year-old Orioles fan throws first pitch on Opening Day
