A 109-year-old World War II and Korean War hero receives the ultimate tribute from the Baltimore Orioles, reminding America of true patriotism amid today’s foreign entanglements.
Story Highlights
- Arthur Green, 109, WWII and Korean War veteran, named 2026 Mo Gaba Fan of the Year by Orioles.
- Honored with letter from owner David Rubenstein and visit from Hall of Famer Al Bumbry at family bowling celebration.
- Green threw ceremonial first pitch in 2023 at age 106, called happiest day of his life by daughter Myra.
- Award grants role as “10th man” at Home Opener, celebrating lifelong fandom and service.
- Story uplifts as nation questions endless wars, honoring veterans who fought real battles for freedom.
Arthur Green’s Remarkable Honor
Arthur Green, a 109-year-old Baltimore resident and veteran of World War II and the Korean War, received the Baltimore Orioles’ 2026 Mo Gaba Fan of the Year award. The announcement took place during a family celebration at AMF Woodlawn Lanes in Woodlawn, Maryland, one day before his 109th birthday. Orioles owner David Rubenstein sent a personal letter recognizing Green’s fan dedication and military service as an American hero. Hall of Famer Al Bumbry attended in person to celebrate the Greatest Generation veteran’s loyalty. This moment contrasts sharply with frustrations over current overseas conflicts draining American resources.
Legacy of Service and Fandom
Green’s ties to the Orioles began notably on August 25, 2023, when he threw the ceremonial first pitch at age 106. His daughter Myra described this as the happiest day of his life, underscoring deep emotional bonds to the team. The Mo Gaba award, named for late superfan Mo Gaba, annually honors dedicated supporters. Recipients serve as the “10th man” at the Home Opener, a ceremonial role fitting Green’s enduring spirit. In an era of high energy costs and war fatigue, such recognitions reaffirm community values over globalist overreach.
Community and Veteran Recognition
The Orioles organization selected Green for his exceptional longevity, patriotism, and multi-generational fandom. His dual service in major 20th-century wars positions him as a symbol of sacrifice for American liberty. The award elevates his profile in Baltimore’s sports culture and veteran circles, providing family pride amid national divisions. As MAGA supporters debate involvement in Iran, Green’s story spotlights domestic heroes who defended freedom without endless regime-change promises unkept. This honor strengthens local ties, benefiting the team through goodwill.
Broader Impact on American Values
Green’s recognition sets a precedent for sports teams honoring elderly veterans, potentially inspiring nationwide initiatives. It highlights intergenerational links between military duty and civic passions like baseball, core to conservative family traditions. The veteran community gains visibility, countering government neglect seen in past overspending and open borders. While Trump battles Iranian threats, stories like Green’s ground us in real victories: individual resilience, limited government roles in communities, and celebrating those who built America strong. His journey inspires amid constitutional concerns over war powers.
Sources:
109-year-old WWII, Korean War vet named 2026 Mo Gaba Fan of the Year – WMAR2 News












