CHARLOTTE, N.C. (WBTV) – The Charlotte Fire Department and Medic’s team defeated the Charlotte Police and Mecklenburg County Sheriff’s Office team 7-2 on Saturday at Bojangles Coliseum in the 18th annual Salute to Heroes Hockey game.
5,000 people attended to help raise money for first responders in need.
Fallen first responders were also honored with a performance of “Amazing Grace,” accompanied by bagpipe players.
“It’s a very emotional night for us. It’s a very special night for us,” said retired Charlotte Police Captain Michelle Hummel. “Except for when they’re competing on the field, we’re very, very lucky that our first responders in this community support each other very well.”
The money raised goes to the families of the fallen and to help first responders who have health issues including on the job injuries.
Players like firefighter Matt Gaine and retired police Sergeant Brian Carey say the atmosphere is electric.
“It’s about as close as we can get to playing in the NHL,” said Gaine. “It’s a hockey game. It’s competitive, everyone wants to win.”
“Christmas is obviously a lot better, but Hero’s Hockey is a close second,” said Carey. “You feel overwhelmed with the number of people that are out there.”
As Charlotte’s population grows, organizers are welcoming more people to support the cause of Salute to Heroes.
“Anything people can do to help that community and help our first responders to relieve some stress on that job or just help in general; thank you,” said Hummel.
Learn more about the Salute to Heroes organization here.
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