Strikes for Stripes 2026: Celebrate America at 250 and Honor America's West Michigan Heroes

On Saturday, September 12, Strikes for Stripes 2026 — an annual Veterans vs. First Responders baseball game raising funds for Hero Services — returns to Cornerstone University’s De Witt Baseball Field for the fifth consecutive year. As part of Cornerstone University’s America 250 community events, this year’s gathering also commemorates the 25th anniversary of September 11 and celebrates Cornerstone University’s 85th anniversary, bringing together veterans, first responders, families and neighbors for an evening of remembrance, patriotism and community.

“For 85 years, Cornerstone University has prepared men and women to lead lives of purpose, service and influence,” said Dr. Kevin Hall, vice president of academics & spiritual formation and former first responder. “During this historic year of celebrating America and remembering 9/11, we’re honored to host Strikes for Stripes alongside Hero Services as an expression of that enduring commitment, bringing people together to honor the veterans and first responders whose courage and sacrifice have preserved our freedoms and continue to strengthen the communities they serve.”

Partnering with Hero Services has become a Cornerstone University tradition. Strikes for Stripes raises critical support for the organization’s Wellness Program and Relief Fund. Every ticket, donation and merchandise purchase helps provide wellness resources and financial assistance to veterans, first responders and health care professionals. The annual event gives families an opportunity to celebrate those who serve while helping ensure these everyday heroes receive the care and support they deserve.

“Strikes for Stripes is about bringing people together to recognize the people who show up for our communities every day,” said Jordan White, founder and president of Hero Services. “Whether you served in uniform, answered emergency calls, cared for others in health care or simply want to say ‘thank you,’ this evening reminds us that no one serves alone. We’re grateful Cornerstone has helped grow this tradition into one of West Michigan’s most meaningful annual gatherings.”

Event Highlights

Spend the evening at Cornerstone University’s De Witt Baseball Field, where the Veterans vs. First Responders softball game is just the beginning. Throughout the evening, guests can:

• Cheer on the annual Veterans vs. First Responders softball game.
• Explore military, police, fire and emergency response vehicles during Touch-a-Truck.
• View a piece of the World Trade Center in remembrance of September 11.
• Experience a replica of the Twin Towers created from military dog tags, a featured 2026 ArtPrize entry.
• Take part in the patriotic pregame ceremony.
• Watch the ceremonial first pitch.
• Come hungry! Enjoy dinner from local food trucks, ice cream and other treats while the kids explore family activities and meet local heroes.
• Enjoy food, family activities and opportunities to meet local heroes.

Event Schedule

Saturday, September 12, 2026

• Gates Open: 5 p.m.
• Touch-a-Truck: 5 p.m.
• Pregame Ceremony: 6:30 p.m.
• Veterans vs. First Responders Softball Game: Immediately following the ceremony

Admission is free for all Cornerstone University students with a valid university ID.

Come to cheer on the game, explore the exhibits, and enjoy time with family and friends on a beautiful West Michigan evening! Strikes for Stripes offers an opportunity to stand alongside the heroes who strengthen our communities every day.

Purchase tickets, make a donation or learn more at HeroServicesofWM.com/Strikes-for-Stripes.