BETHLEHEM, Pa. (WFMZ) — On Thursday, the Bethlehem police and fire unions showed off their skills on the field during their annual 9/11 Memorial Softball Game.
A special game uniting those who keep us safe while remembering those who gave the ultimate sacrifice.
“The annual softball game is to honor all of those who have perished in 9/11,” said firefighter and president of IAFF Local 735 Lou Jimenez.
Bethlehem’s police and fire unions have played softball every Sept. 11 for more than 20 years.
“It brings everyone together. It’s a good chance for camaraderie to honor 9/11 and honor everyone who sacrificed and gave their lives,” said Officer Robert Nichelson, president of Bethlehem Star Lodge #20.
The annual game is all in good fun — plus a “little” bit of competition.
“There’s a lot of bantering between police and fire but at the same time we’re all on the same team and we all care about the citizens of the city,” Jimenez explained. “We intend to win tonight too.”
Nichelson joked he gave his team of police officers ultimatums.
“I hope they come through this year. Fire’s won the last couple of years so I’m expecting our guys to come through this year,” Nichelson stated.