National Matches open with bang at First Shot Ceremony

CAMP PERRY – The Civilian Marksmanship Program's National Matches officially and appropriately opened with a bang in more ways than one Monday morning with the inaugural First Shot Ceremony at Camp Perry.

U.S. Rep. Bob Latta, R-Bowling Green, fired the traditional first shot after speaking briefly about his own memories and experiences on Camp Perry and with the matches. A large audience of distinguished guests, competitive shooters, enthusiasts and their families were also treated to several flyovers by two WWII-era planes, a live demonstration of an M4 Sherman Tank and a WWII combat re-enactment by military historians.

Following the Allies' swift and sure victory over the Germans, colors were presented by a "Rosie the Riveter" re-enactor as well as Minnie Bennett, 91, Rosie's real-life counterpart, who worked in a steel plant for three years during the war.

The First Shot Ceremony festivities reflected an appreciation for history, especially that of the men and women of our U.S. Armed Forces. A connection also was made to Camp Perry's role, maintaining the largest and best-equipped rifle and pistol ranges in the country for over 100 years, where the nation's top civilian and military marksmen honed their skills in friendly competition.

Orest Michaels, the event's master of ceremonies, said the National Matches are the equivalent for shooting sports to what the World Series is for baseball, and said Camp Perry's historical significance to competitive shooting mirrors that of Boston's Fenway Park.

He said match attendees should take time to reflect on the thousands of men and women who have walked these same grounds, and note the rich tradition of the camp and the beauty of Ottawa County.

"It's a wonderful place to learn more about the shooting sports, compete among the best and take home memories to share with your children and grandchildren," Michaels said.

However, the National Matches are about much more than just the sport of competitive shooting.

"We gather here each year, not only to crown champions, but to renew friendships, make new ones, and enjoy this American cultural experience on the shore of Lake Erie with fellow thousands of sports men and women," he said.

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