Freedom Field dedicated

MILAN — The Edison Schools community officially dedicated Freedom Field prior to Friday's football game between the Chargers and Gibsonburg. Coles Energy purchased the naming rights to the field for $250,000 and opted to honor service members past and present with the name. The field also honors Maxton Soviak, 22, an Edison graduate who was among 13 U.S. service members who died on Aug. 26, 2021, in Afghanistan. Maxton died a hero, helping evacuate Americans and Afghan citizens, including children, at risk of being killed by the Taliban. Kip and Rachel Soviak, Maxton's parents, were among the dignitaries who gathered at midfield before kickoff. "We couldn't be more pleased with the name Freedom Field," Kip Soviak told the crowd. "Of the heroes who are here tonight, please gaze at the monument to you, and thank you for your service." Principal Nick Wenzel thanked the community and recognized Coles Energy and Cross Country Mortgage, which jump-started the fundraising for the field with a $100,000 contribution. Wenzel said Coles Energy chose the perfect name. "He was trying to help others to freedom," Wenzel said of Maxton Soviak, who earned the nickname "Doc" from Marines he served with. "Freedom Field is now a spot for all of us to remember — everyone past, present and future who have helped us to have the freedom we love today." Soviak's number 27 is embedded at the 27-yard line in four places on the vibrant new field. As a result of his brave actions, the Navy posthumously advanced Maxton to the rank of Hospital Corpsman Third Class on Sept. 2, 2021. He also received many honors, including the Purple Heart, the Congressional Gold Medal and the Fleet Marine Force warfare badge.