BOSTON — The Boston Red Sox honored the late U.S. Sen. Edward Kennedy before their game on Wednesday night, paying tribute to a lifelong fan whose family was as much a part of Boston history as the team itself.

The U.S. flag flew at half-staff at Fenway Park, where Kennedy threw out the ceremonial first pitch on opening day, 97 years after his grandfather, Boston mayor John “Honey Fitz” Fitzgerald christened the ballpark that is now the oldest in the major leagues.
A lone Air Force bugler played “Taps” as both teams lined up on the baselines — a tradition usually reserved for playoff games or opening day. The national anthem was sung by the a cappella group “Hyannis Sound” in recognition of Kennedy’s connection to Cape Cod.