The Hinsdale Central Holiday Classic will continue its "Salute to Service"  tradition again this year.

The "Salute to Service" Day will recognize veterans and active duty service personnel for their service to their country before the opening tip in a game ball presentation ceremony.  The event will also feature coaches, officials and tournament staff wearing camouflage attired apparel throughout the day.  All active duty and retired service men and women will once again be admitted free of charge during the first day of the tournament.

Among those that presented game balls at the past two years' tournament were Jim McCormick, a 1957 graduate of Hinsdale High School; Corporal Charlie Hartley, a World War II Army Veteran;  and 92-year old John McCann, a World War II Navy veteran. The Cook County Chronicle ran an article on the 2016 event.

“It is only fitting that we recognize those individuals who have served our country and the efforts that they have made to keep our country safe” said tournament manager Joe Spagnolo.  “I hope that we can replicate this honor at every high school basketball tournament throughout the state in the future.”

Once again, the Hinsdale Central Holiday Classic has teamed with Troop Dreams – a charitable organization that makes military family dreams and wishes come true.