SALEM, Va. – Saturday is day two of Banana Ball in Salem as the Firefighters once again take on the Texas Tailgaters and local heroes were part of the fun.
“I think we have a responsibility as part of this team,” Bradford Webb said. “Because when you represent all the firefighters and EMS first responders it’s a heavy weight on your shoulders.”
It’s part of the “Firefighter Salute,” where firefighters in the crowd will be asked to stand up during the game and be recognized. Members of the Baseball Firefighters will then go up to show them their proper respect.
Salem Fire and EMS got special treatment, with one Captain Todd Bedwell being honored on the field for his service.
For some players, the salute hits a little closer to home.
“I have some family back home that are in local fire departments, and I actually wear their hat — Ickesburg Fire Department,” said Ben Dum III of the Firefighters. “So I have some family that is in that fire department. [In] every city we go to, a local fire department comes out, and it is just super special with some super special interactions.”
In the midst of providing a weekend of fun to so many fans, the firefighters ensured true heroes and first responders got the respect they deserve.