CHICAGO  –   Major League Baseball’s Chicago White Sox honored Brig. Gen. Michael Shanley, Commanding General, 85th U.S. Army Reserve Support Command, as the ‘Hero of the Game’ during the third inning of their home game versus the Texas Rangers, May 24, 2025.

During the on-field recognition, Shanley received a standing ovation from a cheering crowd of more than 19,000 spectators.

“I appreciate the way the Chicago White Sox honors our military service members at each of their home games,” said Shanley. “While I certainly don’t consider myself a hero, I was honored to be their ‘Hero of the Game’ and represent all the brave heroes that serve and have served among us.”

Shanley deployed twice, once to Camp Bucca, Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and then later to Afghanistan, in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. On his first deployment, he served under Multi-National Force - Iraq. During his second deployment, he served in Bagram and later served in Kabul as the Current Operations and Detention Operations Officer for Combined Joint Interagency Task Force 435.

After the game Shanley reflected on the experience.

“It was especially meaningful to me because it was Memorial Day weekend, and I could honor and represent my brothers and sisters who have made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our great nation.”

Shanley’s top awards include the Legion of Merit and Defense Meritorious Service Medal.

The White Sox beat the Texas Rangers 10-5.