BNP honors nation’s bravest in Salute Our Heroes ceremony

Serena Williams shared the stage tonight with the nation’s heroes: the men and women who serve in the armed forces, and here at home as first responders.

The annual “Salute Our Heroes” ceremony was held tonight after the tournament’s marquee match, serving as a small token of appreciation for these heroes’ sacrifices.

“They deserve it. They support us, they protect us, they take care of us. Anything we can do for them we should do ,” said Frank Luckenbacher of Los Angeles.

The Palm Springs High School marching band provided the fan fare, while the Shadow Hills High School choir took the national anthem to new heights.

Thousands in Stadium 1 at the Indian Wells Tennis Garden united by their appreciation for the men and women who stand tall to protect our country at home and overseas.

Men like Cy Clays and Jim Miller.

“I play tennis and I love tennis and I’m glad a tennis organization is recognizing veterans,” said Clays, a veteran of the Navy.

“It was so long ago that I was in the military and we didn’t have anything like this. It’s kind of nice that they’re doing this now,” said Miller, who served in the Air Force in the Korean War.

The moving ceremony wouldn’t be complete without the presentation of the massive American flag by members of the Twentynine Palms Marine base.

“They definitely deserve it. They do so much hard work and they are the real heroes,” said Jyoti Pandey of Santa Clara.

An emotional tribute for those who sacrifice themselves for the land of the free and the home of the brave.

“I think it’s giving honors to them and, especially in the game of tennis, it’s awesome,” said Utkarch Seth of Santa Clara.