Fire & Police Departments challenge again in Three Rivers Annual Memorial Softball Game

It is that time of year again when the Fort Wayne Fire Department (FWFD) and the Fort Wayne Police Department (FWPD) challenge each other in the 33rd Annual Rager-Stiverson Memorial Softball Game, 6:30 p.m., Tuesday, July 17.  The game will be played at the Main Diamond of Turners of Fort Wayne, 3636 Parnell Avenue.  This year's game is dedicated to raising awareness and money for the new Law Enforcement and Fire Fighters Memorial, Wells and Ewing streets, just north of the St. Mary's River.

The softball game, a family-friendly event, which pits firefighters against police officers, is one of the Fort Wayne Newspapers Three Rivers Festival Annual Events. Originally played just for bragging rights, the game was dedicated in 1973 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.  The game date this year is the 38th anniversary of Patrolman Stiverson's death while serving our community.

"It's an honor to be able to celebrate the lives of these two men by having the police and fire department softball teams come together in a good-natured, fun atmosphere to meet and celebrate the men and women who serve our community every day in public service," said Capt. Chad Wagner, captain of the FWPD Team.  Capt. Andy Pfeiffer, captain of the FWFD Team, said, "It is also another opportunity to inform the public about the new Law Enforcement and Fire Fighters Memorial on land graciously donated by Jerry and Linda Vandeveer."

Besides cheering on their favorite team, the public will have the chance to make donations toward the construction of the memorial directly. Bleacher seating is available First Come-First Served. Come out and enjoy a friendly rivalry and support your Fort Wayne Fire and Police Departments.