On Friday night July 15, Jim Robinson, Hunterdon County Public Affairs Manager for SPRINT was recognized by the New Jersey National Guard and the New Jersey Military Family Support Program for his longstanding and solid support of New Jersey troops deployed for Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom.

      Robinson received an American flag that was flown aboard an Apache Attack Helicopter during a combat mission over Baghdad by members of the 1st Battalion - 150th Aviation, New Jersey Army National Guard.  A certificate of authenticity signed by the aircrew currently serving in Iraq who actually flew the mission also was included in the presentation.

      The ceremony took place at Commerce Bank Park as part of the pre-game “Salute the Troops” event hosted by SPRINT.  This is the third consecutive year that Mr. Robinson and SPRINT have converted their traditional “SPRINT Night” at the Patriot's game into a “Salute the Troops” event.  A large delegation of family members of deployed military personnel from throughout the area was in attendance as guests of SPRINT to witness the ceremony and enjoy the game and fireworks that followed.  Glenn Lewis, SPRINT Public Affairs Manager for Sussex County, performed an a capella rendition of “America the Beautiful” as a most appropriate and very personal backdrop to the ceremony.

      The Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve Committee recognized SPRINT in 2003 with the “Pro Patria” award that is presented to the outstanding employer of Guardsman and reservists in the state.  Military family members and troops alike have been the recipients of thousands of pre-paid telephone calling cards compliments of SPRINT that help families here in New Jersey stay in closer touch with their loved ones who are serving in uniform over seas.