News release from the Fort Wayne Fire Department:
40th Annual Rager-Stiverson Memorial Softball Game today
WHO: Fort Wayne Fire Department
WHAT: FWFD vs. FWPD 40th Annual Rager-Stiverson Memorial Softball Game
WHERE: Main Diamond of Fort Wayne Turners, 3636 Parnell Avenue
WHEN: Wednesday, July 17, 2013 – Opening ceremonies begins at 6:30 p.m. The game begins at 7 p.m.
WHY: Fire & Police Departments challenge again in 40th annual Memorial Softball Game
(July 15, 2013) – Fort Wayne Firefighters are looking to take back the title Wednesday when the Fort Wayne Fire Department (FWFD) and the Fort Wayne Police Department (FWPD) challenge each other in the 40th Annual Rager-Stiverson Memorial Softball Game. The game will be played at the Main Diamond of Fort Wayne Turners (3636 Parnell Avenue) Wednesday, July 17 beginning with opening ceremonies at 6:30 p.m. and the game starting at 7 p.m.
The softball game, a family-friendly event, which pits firefighters against police officers, was originally played just for bragging rights. In 1973, the game was dedicated to honor Michael Thomas Rager, Fort Wayne Fire Department District Chief, and Patrolman Kenneth P. Stiverson, Fort Wayne Police Department, both of whom died in the line of duty while serving the citizens of Fort Wayne in 1972 and 1969 respectively.
Last year, despite a valiant effort to continue their winning streak, the Fort Wayne Firefighters fell to the Fort Wayne Police by a score of 23 to 18.
The proceeds of this year’s game will benefit FWFD member Michael Miller and his family. Miller’s daughter, Madeline Miller, age 15 and a sophomore at the New American Conservatory, will be getting possession of a psychiatric service
dog this December. The dog is a one year old Australian Shepherd named Tripp. Tripp will go through a four month training program through Committed Canine out of Brownstown, IL. Tripp will be specifically trained to help Madeline
deal with her anxiety, panic attacks and depression. Proceeds of the game will help with the total cost of the dog and its training.
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