Recovering soldier is special guest


(From left) Pres. Jusith A. Matt, Mayor Charles Ryan, and Mark Ecker, father of wounded soldier. Reminder Publications photo by G. Michael Dobbs

By G. Michael Dobbs, Managing Editor

SPRINGFIELD U.S. Army Sergeant Mark Ecker, II, of East Longmeadow will be a special guest at the annual "Star Spangled Springfield" on July 4.

At a press conference on Thursday, Ecker's father, Mark said his son was "thrilled" to be part of the annual event. The younger Ecker lost both of his legs while serving in Iraq.

"It will be an honor to have Sergeant Ecker join us. He, like his fellow soldiers serving throughout the world, is a true hero," said Spirit of Springfield President Judith A. Matt

Ecker will address the audience at 7:30 p.m. at the City Hall esplanade before a concert by the 53-member U. S Air Force Liberty Pops orchestra.

"We are thrilled to have the opportunity to welcome the incredible musical talents of the U. S. Air Force Liberty Pops back to Springfield," said Matt. "They wowed the crowd in 2006."

Following the concert at 9:30 p.m. will be the traditional fireworks demonstration by Fireworks by Grucci. The fireworks program will be enhanced by a musical simulcast

broadcast on MIX 93.1FM.

Matt estimated that 150,000 would attend the event.

MassMutual is the lead sponsor of the event, contributing $40,000. Other sponsors include Tower Square, Springfield Business Improvement District, WWLP-TV22News, MIX 93.1 FM, The Republican, Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, Bank of Western Massachusetts, Springfield Parking Authority, Elegant Affairs, Michael's Party Rentals, 90 Meat Outlet, City of Springfield and more.

For more information about Springfield's July 4th celebration, contact the Spirit of Springfield at 733-3800 or visit www.spiritofspringfield.org.