World War II veterans honored "hometown heroes" at Astros playoff games

Houston Astros recognize veterans

FOX 26 Reporter Matthew Seedorff has more on how veterans were recognized by the Houston Astros.

HOUSTON - Baseball fans at every Astros home game this postseason are honoring hometown heroes.

For Game 1 of the American League Championship Series, two World War II veterans were shown on the big screen in between innings. The crowd stood and applauded as the two veterans waved.

ASTROS: ALCS: Houston and New York make a friendly food wager with city favorites

"It was wonderful," said Dennis Ashley, one of the honored vets. "It was unbelievable."

Commander Hector Giren from Spring Branch American Legion Post 654 has been working with the Astros to bring veterans to these playoff games. Giren says he’s been doing this for 11 years.

Astros celebrate Game 1 ALDS win

EDITORS NOTE: This video is from a previous story. FOX 26 Reporter Matthew Seedorff was out and about with fans just minutes after the Astros took Game 1 of the ALDS.

"I served my country for 4 years," Giren shared. "I wasn’t done serving. So, I started serving the community. I know World War II veterans are pretty limited. I just took it upon myself to find them and get them recognized for everything they’ve done for us."

C.P. "Buck" Sloan will be recognized at Game 2 of the ALCS. The U.S. Veteran landed in Normandy and was injured in the Battle of the Bulge.

THINGS TO DO: Houston events this weekend: Astros ALCS watch party, festivals & more!

"It’s been quite a while, but it finally happened," said C.P. "Buck" Sloan.

American heroes enjoying America’s pastime.

ASTROS VS. YANKEES: ALCS: Houston and New York make a friendly food wager with city favorites

"Go Astros!" said Sloan and Giren.