PELHAM – American Legion Matthew Blount Post 555 and Alabama Hockey will host a Military Appreciation Night Jan. 19 at the Pelham Civic Complex and Ice Arena.

Alabama will play Illinois State at 7 p.m. Pre-game and opening activities begin at 6:45 p.m. Admission is free for veterans and active military personnel with proof of service. General admission is $10 for adults, $5 for children under 12 years old and for University of Alabama students.

The event is co-sponsored by the David Lindsay Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution, American Village – Veterans Register of Honor, Pelham Youth Hockey Association and other community organizations.

The Pelham Fire Department will display a large American flag at the rink’s entrance and members from Thompson High School’s JROTC will present the colors while members of the Pelham High School choir sing the National Anthem.

At the end of the first period, the team and local youth organizations will recognize all service members in attendance and present them with gift bags provided by the Exchange Club of Shelby County, Post 555 and David Lindsay chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution.

Close to a dozen of different youth groups will assist in passing out the appreciation gift bags. Gift bag items are courtesy of Golden Rule BBQ, McAlister’s Deli, Texas Roadhouse and Chubbfather’s.

Post 555 will also hold a drawing for a wood carving of a perched golden eagle, donated by Woodlot Artisans Chainsaw Art Gallery. Donations will be $5 for one entry ticket, $10 for three or $20 for eight. Proceeds will go toward American Legion programs that support veterans, youth and the community.

For additional information, contact Kenneth Paschal at 1sgpaschal@gmail.com or Stephanie Monday at smonday4@gmail.com.