By Stampeders.com Staff

The Calgary Stampeders are very proud to host Canadian Armed Forces Appreciation Day on Monday, Sept. 7 as the Stamps face the Edmonton Eskimos in the annual Labour Day Classic. Kickoff at McMahon Stadium is 2:30 p.m.

The Stampeders will welcome 300 special guests including Canadian Armed Forces members, family members and veterans to the contest and honour them for their service with the Canadian military.

“We’re extremely honoured for this opportunity to recognize the Canadian Armed Forces,” said Stampeders president Gordon Norrie. “We know our fans will join us in saluting these men and women and showing appreciation for their service to the country.”

Captain John Kim, accompanied by the Royal Canadian Artillery Band, will perform the national anthem. As a part of the national anthem ceremony, 40 members of the Canadian Armed Forces from the HMCS Tecumseh, the 41 Canadian Brigade Calgary, the 408 Tactical Helicopter Squadron and the CFRC Calgary will unfurl a 30-by-60-foot Canadian flag on the field.

The anthem will be followed by a flyover by two CF-18 Hornets from Cold Lake. Commander of the Royal Canadian Air Force, Lieutenant-General Mike Hood, will take part in the opening coin toss.

Yellow ribbons in support of military personnel will adorn the end-zones and special “Support Our Troops” merchandise will be on sale at various tables on the concourse. Commemorative Stampeders military caps will be available for purchase, with proceeds to be directed to Support Our Troops. A portion of the proceeds from the game’s 50/50 draw will also go to Support Our Troops.

Following the conclusion of the game, uniformed military personnel will be welcomed onto the field where they will receive the opportunity to have a post-game group photo with Stampeders players.