The New Jersey Devils and Prudential Financial will honor current and former United States military service members during the team’s 16th annual Military Appreciation Night presented by Prudential on Nov. 5 when the Devils host the St. Louis Blues at Prudential Center. Puck drop is scheduled for 7:00 p.m.
The first 9,000 fans through the doors in Newark will receive a commemorative military cap courtesy of Prudential. As part of its community outreach, Prudential is also donating 100 complimentary tickets to active military personnel and veterans to attend the game.
Throughout the evening, game-day fundraising initiatives will directly benefit Operation Sisterhood at YWCA Northern New Jersey, an organization dedicated to supporting women veterans across the Garden State.
Proceeds from the night’s 50/50 drawing, as well as sales of mystery player-signed military patches available near Section 16, will go to support Operation Sisterhood’s regional programs. Representatives from the organization will also host an informational table on the main concourse by Sections 17 and 18.
Additional concourse activations and game highlights include:
- Player Arrivals with Paws of War: Devils players will arrive at the arena alongside service dogs from Paws of War, a non-profit that rescues and trains service animals for veterans, active military, and first responders.
- Ceremonial Puck Drop: 100-year-old World War II veteran and Far Hills, New Jersey native Bob Walsh will participate in the ceremonial puck drop. NCO Corporal Walsh enlisted in 1943 and served with the 2nd Marine Division in Okinawa, Japan.
- National Anthem & Honor Guard: Staff Sergeant Hallie Koches, a vocalist with the 78th Army Band and Frenchtown, New Jersey native, will perform the National Anthem. Colors will be presented by the USMC Combat Logistics Battalion 25 Color Guard based out of Red Bank, New Jersey.
- Heroes Among Us: The Devils will honor airmen from the 621st Contingency Response Wing stationed at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst in Burlington County. Known as the “Devil Raiders,” these specialized service members deploy globally on short notice to establish airbases, deliver disaster relief, and support tactical missions.
Fans attending the game can enter the Devils Military Appreciation Sweepstakes presented by Prudential for opportunities to win team-signed away jerseys, player-signed helmets, and glass seat tickets with Prudential Lounge access for an upcoming home game.
On the main concourse, Prudential will host a “Here For Our Heroes” activation space near Section 19 featuring photo ops, Devils alumni appearances, team mascot NJ Devil, and an exclusive charm giveaway.
The United States Marine Corps will also feature interactive stations near Sections 17 and 18, including a pull-up bar challenge and “Battle Positions” experience.
Additionally, all Devils Den Team Stores inside Prudential Center will offer a 10% discount on merchandise for active military members and veterans presenting valid military identification.
