It's Air Force vs. Navy for bragging rights

Connie Gomes lay on a blanket at the sideline of Geweke Field in Yuba City as she cheered on her son and son-in-law during the Navy-Air Force football game Friday evening.

Both young men are Air Force recruits, and Gomes said it was important that she support them on the playing field and on the battlefield.

"Our men and women are out there protecting us," Gomes said. "I'm here to show my support."

The flag football game was a scrimmage to secure bragging rights for one of the military branches. All participants are members of the military delayed-entry program, which means they are waiting to begin training in various fields of their chosen military branch.

But on Friday it was all laughs and fun between the two sides.

"I hope we win," said Ashley McAllister, wife of Culinary Specialist Randall McAllister in the Navy recruiting office. "It would make my life easier. (Randall) doesn't like to lose. He's not a sore loser, but who likes to lose?"

The Navy came out on top of this match, beating the Air Force 10-6. The win kept the Navy squad undefeated against all other branches.

McAllister said the Navy team has already taken on the Army and Marine recruiting offices and won both of those games.

"It's all in fun though," she said while cheering for her team as they caught long passes and ran plays toward the end zone.

The games are organized as a way for the recruits to stay in shape before formal training.

Dozens of friends and family from both sides were at the field Friday.

Gomes said her son, Justin Gomes, and son-in-law, Ronald Sangston III, are scheduled to leave for training in September.

Gomes was watching the game with her daughter Amber Sangston, wife of Ronald Sangston III.

"It's a wonderful program. Justin made all his own decisions and I'm proud of him," she said.

Ron Walden was at the game to support his grandson Tyler Taws, who will leave for Navy training in May.

After more than two hours of play, the recruits ended the friendly game and enjoyed a barbecue prepared by Walden.

"I do what I can," the retired Marine said of supporting his grandson. "I just don't want him to go over there and get killed."

Contact Appeal reporter Andrea Koskey at 749-4709 or akoskey@appealdemocrat.com