Ceremony to honor Steinbrenner and Sheppard

The Yankees are holding a tribute before to remember the lives and recognize the passings of owner George Steinbrenner III and public address announcer Bob Sheppard.

First, there was a video tribute to Steinbrenner and the crowd stood on their feet with loud applause for several minutes after it concluded. It just kept getting louder. Then a "Lets Go Yankees" chant started. 

Then two long-stem roses were laid acorss home plate by Mariano Rivera to honor Steinbrenner and Sheppard.

After that, Derek Jeter spoke to the crowd and a moment of silence was held for both guys followed by a rendition of Taps performed by Staff Sergeant Mikki Skinner, a bugler from the West Point Band.

The national anthem was performed by U.S. Army First Class MaryKay Messenger and the colors were presented by the West Point Color Guard. A wreath was placed in front of Steinbrenner's statue in the Yankee Stadium Gate 2 Executive Lobby and in front of Mr. Sheppard's plaque in Monument Park.

Throughout the game tonight, videotaped messages and memories of Steinbrenner will be played on the video board. To pay tribute to Sheppard, the public address system will remain silent.

There will be more ceremonies at tomorrow's Old-Timers' Day.