SFC Shelbi “Squirrel” Thornton runs with the American flag during a local high school game. A recruiter for the Mississippi Army National Guard, she’s known for being the loudest, proudest supporter of her daughter Keelyn.
Memorial Day: Players Share Tributes to Military Family
Memorial Day isn’t just about time off or cookouts—it’s about honoring those who’ve served and sacrificed. At Extra Inning Softball, we asked our community to reflect on what this day means to them. Players responded with powerful tributes to parents, relatives, and loved ones who have worn the uniform.
This tribute shines a light on voices of two young athletes—Aliyah Reeder and Keelyn Constancio—whose personal stories connect their softball journey to the legacy of service in their families.
Keep reading to see how these players carry pride, purpose, and remembrance with them every time they step on the field.
A Chain, A Photo, A Promise
Aliyah Reeder, a Class of 2030 standout for the Tampa Mustangs Szabo, shared one of the most emotional tributes. Her father, Josh J. Reeder, served in the Army and passed away a year ago this month. Though he’s no longer here physically, his presence is with her every time she plays.
U.S. Army veteran Josh J. Reeder takes a photo during his deployment. Remembered for his service and spirit, Reeder is honored by his daughter Aliyah each time she steps on the field.
“Forever in my heart on and off the field,” Aliyah wrote. “I wear his chain every game I play and keep a photo of him in my softball bag from when he played as a kid.”
Josh J. Reeder poses with his daughter at a father-daughter dance. Reeder’s legacy lives on through Aliyah Reeder, a Class of 2030 athlete who carries his photo in her softball bag at every tournament.
Reeder’s tribute is a reminder that Memorial Day isn’t just about honoring fallen soldiers—it’s about remembering the everyday lives they touched. For Aliyah, carrying her dad’s chain is more than a superstition or symbol—it’s a commitment to making him proud through every at-bat and inning.
Josh J. Reeder cradles his newborn daughter during a return from deployment. Reeder served in the U.S. Army and passed away in 2023. His daughter, Aliyah Reeder, honors him through softball, wearing his chain every game.
One Loud Cheer, Two Quiet Heroes
Keelyn Constancio, Class of 2027, suits up for Hotshots National 09 Chism with a legacy that spans generations of service. Her tribute honors both of her parents—SFC Shelbi “Squirrel” Thornton and retired SFC Richard Constancio—who have served with distinction in the U.S. Army.
“My mom. SFC Shelbi ‘Squirrel’ Thornton. Mississippi Army National Guard current recruiter,” Keelyn shared. “Always finding opportunities to make life fun and never do I question if she’s in the audience… yes, she’s that proud loud mom!”
“My dad. Retired SFC Richard Constancio, US Army. Multiple tours in Iraq. Never do I ever have to question how much he supports my dreams.”
What stands out is the dual role these parents play—not just as military professionals but as pillars of support. From the stands to the field, their influence has shaped Keelyn’s work ethic, passion, and leadership. They represent the strength of those who serve—and the families who support them every step of the way.
Retired SFC Richard Constancio stands in front of a mural during Operation Iraqi Freedom. He completed multiple tours in Iraq with the U.S. Army and now supports his daughter Keelyn’s softball journey.
More Than a Game
These stories show that softball isn’t played in a vacuum. It’s woven with stories of sacrifice, love, and legacy. Memorial Day offers a moment to recognize how military service shapes young athletes in visible and invisible ways—from discipline and resilience to gratitude and grit.
The influence of military families can’t be measured by stats, but it’s felt in every game where players wear a chain, look to the stands for a familiar face, or tap into strength they didn’t know they had. That strength often comes from the quiet sacrifices made by family members who served—many of whom aren’t here to witness the success of the players they’ve inspired.
Courtesy of the Guardians of the National Cemetery
Final Word: Carry the Legacy
For players like Aliyah and Keelyn, Memorial Day is deeply personal. It’s a chance to honor the ones who shaped them, to reflect on their roots, and to express pride not just in their play—but in where they come from.
This Memorial Day, we recognize all the families behind the fences, in the dugouts, and in the stories that inspire young athletes to chase their dreams with courage and purpose.
At Extra Inning Softball, we salute the heroes who served—and those who carry their legacy forward on the diamond.
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