Navy SEAL Michael Strange Killed In Afghanistan Honored At Softball Game In Fishtown

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) – A memorial softball game was played in the Fishtown section of the city Friday night to honor Michael Strange, one of the Navy SEALs killed when a helicopter was shot down in Afghanistan one week ago.

The game pitted a team named SEAL Team 6 versus a group of North Catholic Alumni, where Michael Strange had graduated high school in 2004, just two months before starting his military career.

His family was escorted to the game by an Honor Guard in addition to members of the Warriors Watch. Upon arrival, a moment of silence was observed, before Strange’s father threw out a ceremonial first pitch.

Father Jack, a teacher at North Catholic thought the ceremony would help the community to heal.

“Its helps in their healing, but also it helps them to make sense of this crazy time we live in. That young men and women continue to serve their country, fight for freedom, and ultimately give their lives.”

A Facebook page set up in memory of Michael Strange had reached over 9,000 friends within a few days of being set up.