Midland College to Host Military Appreciation Night at Jan. 19 Men’s Basketball GameJanuary 16, 2026

Midland College will host a Military Appreciation Night during the Chaps men’s basketball game against New Mexico Military Institute on Monday, Jan. 19, celebrating the service and sacrifice of military veterans and their families.

The event will take place at the Chaparral Center, with tipoff set for 6 p.m. The Chaps Athletic Club invites all military veterans and their families to enjoy a complimentary dinner provided by Down South Seafood during the game.

In addition to the on-court action, fans are encouraged to arrive early to visit a resource fair on the concourse, featuring local nonprofits that support veterans and military families. The fair will also highlight the impactful work of the Permian Basin Honor Flight, which honors local veterans through trips to Washington, D.C., to visit the memorials built in their honor.

“Military Appreciation Night is a chance for Midland College to publicly thank the veterans and families who have given so much to our country,” Ortega said. “Our commitment to veterans goes far beyond a single event. From education and support services to community partnerships, Midland College is proud to serve those who have served and to help them succeed long after their time in uniform.”

Midland College Athletic Director Forrest Allen emphasized the college’s continued commitment to community and the role athletics plays in that mission.

“Midland College has a long-standing commitment to serving and strengthening our community,” Allen said. “MC Athletics supports that commitment by creating opportunities for people to come together to enjoy exciting sporting events and recognize the individuals and organizations that make our region special. Nights like this allow us to honor our veterans while bringing the community together in a meaningful way.”

The event is sponsored by Energy Transfer, whose support helps make the evening possible.

Military Appreciation Night is open to the community, and all fans are encouraged to attend, show their support, and help honor local veterans during an evening of basketball and community connection.

For more information about Midland College Athletics, visit gochaps.com. For more info on MC’s Veteran Services, visit midland.edu/veterans.