PHOENIX – The Phoenix Mercury will pay tribute to Arizona resident Army Ranger Sergeant Cory Remsburg, who was President Obama’s honored guest at the 2014 State of the Union address, during the team’s matchup against the Tulsa Shock on Thursday, July 2 at US Airways Center. The tribute will take place during the first timeout of the first quarter and is part of the team’s Military Appreciation Night. Tip-off is set for 7 p.m.

In 2009, during Sgt. Remsburg’s 10^th deployment overseas, a roadside bombing in Afghanistan nearly killed him and placed him in a coma for three months. The bomb left him partially paralyzed and blind in his right eye. After spending years working on his rehabilitation, Sgt. Remsburg has learned to speak, stand and walk again. For his service, Sgt. Remsburg has been awarded the Purple Heart, the National Defense Service Medal and the Bronze Star.

In addition to the recognition, the evening will feature special inclusion of active duty and veteran military personnel in pre-game activities, including the singing of the National Anthem, in-game contests, and the presentation of a giant American flag covering the Mercury court held by 40 members of the Sons of the American Revolution organization. Members of the military will also be paired up and announced with the Mercury starting lineup during player introductions.

As a special thank you for their service, the Phoenix Mercury donated 300 tickets to military members and their families to attend Thursday’s game. Also the first 5,000 fans in attendance will receive a red, white and blue pom-pom.

Sandy Brondello, 2014 WNBA Coach of the Year, leads 2014 WNBA Defensive Player of the Year Brittney Griner, All-Star Candice Dupree and three-time WNBA Sixth Woman of the Year DeWanna Bonner as the Mercury continue to defend their title on Thursday, July 2 at 7 p.m. against the Tulsa Shock at US Airways Center. Single game tickets, as well as exclusive four-game plan options and pro-rated X-Factor Memberships, are available by calling 602-252-WNBA or by visiting PhoenixMercury.com.