NORTH AUGUSTA, SC. () – It was First Responders Night at the Green Jackets game this evening. I attended the event where, prior to the opening pitch, a moment of silence was observed in memory of fallen Columbia County Sheriff’s Deputy Brandon Sikes.

“The North Augusta Public Safety is going to have its color guard out as they walk on the field to salute the flag and honor America. As we conclude that, we will hold a moment of silence for the tragedy that occurred a few weeks ago in Columbia County,” stated Brandon Greene, General Manager of the Augusta GreenJackets. 

The GreenJackets auctioned off two jerseys signed by the entire team and other raffle items given by different businesses in the community. 

“It was a no-brainer, yeah, we can help,” said Justin Rousseau, a volunteer with Fire K. There’s a way for us to contribute, and partnering with local businesses was an easy decision. We brought various great items here, and by the end of the night, we anticipate a significant return for the families.”

All the proceeds from the raffle, the live auction, and all Budweiser sold from the left-field bar will be donated to support the families of Sikes and Deputy Gavin White, who was also shot on April 26th.  It’s all made possible through a Non-Profit called Fire K.

“First partnership and it’s been good to come alongside people that are like minded in the community, “said Phillip Weathers, President and Founder, Fire K. “Justins been doing this for over a year with North Augusta Public Safety and being able to come along beside them and help with something that’s as important as helping these families can’t think of a more worthy cause.”

Baseball fans are happy to come out and support the first responders in our area.

“I’m a retired Firefighter myself, so you know I’m a first responder in that capacity, and it’s great to be honored, and it’s great to honor other first responders,” said Mike Taylor, Baseball Fan.

Fans say it’s the least they can do to honor and appreciate all the first responders do for us.

“They do a really tough job every day, and any little bit of support we can give them is great,” said Heather Tucker, Baseball Fan.

“It’s important that the people who do this every day know that public and the people who live here are behind them.,” said Dick Tucker, Baseball fan.