Special to The TIMES

A World War II veteran spent his weekend at the Razorback ball park thanks to Pea Ridge Police Detective Sgt. Brandon Davis.

Jay Churchwell, 99, was honored as the "war hero" of the game during Saturday's Diamond Hogs showdown against Georgia which included a military appreciation.

"Baseball is Jay's favorite Razorback sport, but he can't enjoy watching it on TV anymore," Davis said. Sgt. Davis was determined to help Churchwell enjoy his favorite pastime.

Churchwell lives in Autumn Place, an assisted living retirement center in Pea Ridge.

"Jay Churchwell has been a lifelong Hogs and baseball fan," Davis said. "And the University of Arkansas is partnering with us for him."

"I've enjoyed the Razorbacks since I've been old enough to know about them," Churchwell said.

Churchwell and Davis became quick friends over the past year after Davis began visiting Churchwell at Autumn Place. Churchwell is the eldest resident of Autumn Place. He is originally from Carlisle. During World War II, he served in Europe. He enjoys sharing stories with fellow WWII veterans at Autumn Place.

Believing in the importance of police officers being involved in the community, Davis said,"We're trying to build relationships with the public. And make contact with people."

Churchwell received a standing ovation from the entire crowd at Baum stadium.

"It's pretty incredible. I was up there next to him ... and you could see everybody in the stadium just turn and cheer for him," Davis said. "He just stood there like a champ and waved and waved. Everybody gave him the recognition somebody like that deserves."

"I'll tell you what, it's great to be this old. And live as good a life I've lived in the past," said Churchwell.