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Charlotte first responders trade in uniforms for hockey gear

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Charlotte-Mecklenburg police officers, Mecklenburg County Sheriff’s Office deputies, Charlotte firefighters, and Mecklenburg EMS paramedics traded in their uniforms for hockey gear on Sunday to raise money for families of fallen officers.

The 13th annual Salute to Heroes game took place at Bojangles Coliseum.

CMPD officers and deputies were on one team, while firefighters and paramedics were on the other.

“This shows how camaraderie works with law enforcement, with fire, everyone. We’re all together. We’re public servants. We’re here to serve the public,” Mecklenburg County Sheriff Irwin Carmichael said.

In the stands, Channel 9 could see support from other agencies across the Charlotte-area. Several people wore shirts bearing the agency that they serve.

"It's important that we show some love for each other because there's times when we're all we've got, so why not show some love?" Calvin Cobb said.

The competition paused mid-game for a few emotional moments as everyone stood and watched the names and pictures of fallen officers were shown.

It was a somber reminder of the sacrifices first responders make every day.

"They put their life on the line every day when they put their uniforms on and go to work, whether it's firefighter, law enforcement, paramedics as well, so we just came out to support," Todd Russell said.

Firefighters and Medic beat CMPD and the deputies with a final score of 6-4.

All the money raise stays in Mecklenburg County to help families of fallen officers. No word yet on how much the event raised for charity.