2017 Special Olympics Summer Games begin

When the Olympic Flame made its way to Keesler Air Force Base this afternoon, the Summer Games for Mississippi officially began.
Nearly one thousand athletes were gathered on base for the commencement ceremony, along with about 4,000 airmen. Those airmen each sponsor an athlete as they compete throughout the weekend.
This event has taken place on site at Keesler for 31 years. The connection between the competitors and their airmen sponsors is something that makes the games that much more special each year.
Closing ceremonies for the 2017 Summer Games will be held on base this Sunday at noon.