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Group photo of about 35 people indoors, gathered in front of a presentation screen displaying “Military Appreciation” with patriotic stars. Many in the front and middle rows wear matching red “Rate” T-shirts, while others wear casual clothing or black shirts with caps. The group stands between two balloon towers made of red, white, and blue balloons. The setting appears to be an event space with wooden beams, large vents, and chairs in the foreground.

A Weekend of Connection: Military Appreciation Night at Rate Field

August 27, 2025

On July 25th, United Through Reading proudly joined fellow military-support organizations for Military Appreciation Night at Rate Field’s iconic Crosstown Series White Sox vs. Cubs game. This unforgettable evening, hosted in partnership with staff from Rate headquarters, brought together leaders, advocates, and families who share a common mission: supporting our military community.

Celebrating Military Spouses and Strengthening Community

All seven 2025 Armed Forces Insurance Military Spouses of the Year (MilSOYs) were honored during the event, taking the field to be recognized for their unwavering dedication and service. United Through Reading was honored to stand alongside them and other organizations, including Hiring Our Heroes, the VFW, and Marine Corps Recruitment. Each organization hosted an outreach table at the stadium.

Before the game, the All-Veteran Group parachuted onto the field to deliver the game ball, which was gifted to the Hero of the Game, Marine Corps Captain, Team USA Bobsled pilot, and children’s book author Riley Tejcek.

At our UTR table, we handed out custom hand fans (a welcome relief in the summer heat!), playful llama stickers, bookmarks, and a selfie frame that brought smiles to families. We also shared a QR code directing attendees to more information about our mission of keeping military families connected through shared reading, no matter the distance.
Graphic introducing the 2025 Armed Forces Insurance Military Spouse of the Year (AFI MSOY) awardees. At the top left is the Military Spouse of the Year logo and the heading “Meet The AFI SOYs.” Below are six circular headshots arranged in two rows. Top row, left to right: Vince Afaisen, Army Spouse of the Year; Brittany Contreras, Marine Corps Spouse of the Year; Jennifer Barnhill, Navy Spouse of the Year; Shaun Beal, Air Force Spouse of the Year. Bottom row, left to right: Meljun Kruk, Space Force Spouse of the Year; Jaime Billert, overall Military Spouse of the Year and Coast Guard Spouse of the Year; Hope Daupert, National Guard Spouse of the Year. Each headshot is labeled with the person’s name and title.

Day of Giving and Team Spirit

Earlier in the day, we gathered at Rate HQ for a warm meet-and-greet and lunch, followed by a meaningful volunteer session. We stickered 500 books destined for an Operation Homefront event in Connecticut. It was a hands-on moment of giving that underscored the power of collaboration. Adding to the fun, the MilSOYs spent the Thursday before the game exploring Chicago on a spirited photo scavenger hunt, toting UTR’s beloved llama plushie along for the ride.

Reflecting on a Purpose-Filled Weekend

More than just a game, this weekend was about building community, amplifying missions that matter, and reinforcing the bonds that sustain our military families. We’re grateful to Rate headquarters for their hospitality and to all who made this experience possible.

Collage of images from the Military Appreciation Luncheon hosted by Rate. Top left shows a blue and red event sign with details of the luncheon. Top middle shows a group photo of attendees wearing red “Rate” shirts in front of a screen with balloon columns in red, white, and blue. Top right shows people at a baseball game holding blue “Hero of the Game” signs. Bottom left shows an informational table with brochures, giveaway items, and a Rate t-shirt. Bottom right shows volunteers standing at a long table, packing children’s books into boxes.

At United Through Reading, we know that connection matters—whether through storytime or shared service. We left Chicago energized and inspired, reminded once again of the strength found in unity.

Featured photo credit: Rate Mortgage #RateHonors

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