The Los Angeles Dodgers are set to honor Lt. Col. Gabriel Estrella, who tragically lost his life in a B-52 Stratofortress crash at Edwards Air Force Base. The tribute will take place before the first game of the National League Division Series (NLDS) against the Atlanta Braves on Saturday afternoon.

Estrella was among eight individuals killed in the crash that occurred shortly after takeoff on June 15, during what the Air Force described as a "routine test flight." The incident claimed the lives of six airmen and two Boeing employees, marking a significant loss for both the military and the aviation community.

In a heartfelt gesture, three B-52s from Edwards Air Force Base will conduct a flyover during the pregame ceremony, coinciding with Keith Williams Jr.'s rendition of the National Anthem. The Dodgers organization has expressed its commitment to honoring fallen service members, and Estrella will be recognized as the Military Hero of the Game.

Estrella, an LA native, had a deep passion for baseball and was a devoted Dodgers fan. His family shared that he had fulfilled his dream of attending a World Series game at Dodger Stadium twice in recent years and was eagerly looking forward to experiencing it again this year. His wife, Brianna, expressed gratitude for the tribute, stating, "He truly was one of their biggest fans, and with him being an LA native, it means that much more."

Estrella's love for the game extended to his family, especially in creating cherished memories with his daughter at the ballpark. The first pitch for the game is scheduled for 1 p.m., and the tribute is expected to resonate deeply with fans and the community.