Lindbergh Schools designated last Friday night’s football game as first responders and military appreciation night, celebrating the occasion with a variety of patriotic events.
The date of the event was significant as it marked the 25th anniversary of Sept. 11 — referred to now as Patriot Day. Though this was a major aspect of the night, the goal of the event was to emphasize the courage, compassion, unity, service and sacrifice of first responders and military members, rather than solely centering on remembrance.
While the game kicked off at 7 p.m., fans were encouraged to arrive early for a special set of pregame ceremonies.
Before kickoff, retired Eureka Fire Protection District Chief Greg Brown and retired Eureka Police Chief Mike Wiegand were honored on the field. Brown served the Eureka Fire Protection District for 43 years, including 29 years as fire chief, while Wiegand spent 49 years serving the City of Eureka, including 38 years as chief of police. The Flyers football team was then escorted down to the field by the Missouri Patriot Guard Riders, who later presented the colors.
Perhaps the most unique aspect of the game was the method in which the game ball was delivered. Piloted by Zach Schmitt, the ball arrived via a Metro Air Support helicopter in which St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department SWAT Officer Matt Gregston was also aboard. Though not a Lindbergh alum, Gregston has roots in the district, having attended Lindbergh Schools from kindergarten through his sophomore year. His wife, Leanne, currently teaches second grade at Dressel Elementary, and the couple’s three children attend Lindbergh Schools. Gregston’s mother also taught in the district from 1975-2005 and continues to substitute.
Gregston joined the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department in 2018.He has received numerous honors, including Officer of the Year in 2024.
After the helicopter landed, Gregston presented the game ball to Colin Davitt, the evening’s Honorary Captain. Davitt, a Marine veteran, is the Director of Artificial Intelligence and Blended Learning at Lindbergh Schools. Before transitioning to his current role, Davitt taught in the district.
Backstoppers — an organization that provides immediate and ongoing assistance to families of first responders who are killed or catastrophically injured in the line of duty — was also a major focus of the evening. At halftime, Lindbergh’s cheerleaders, dancers and other volunteers conducted a 90-second “Dash for Cash” through the stands, with the goal of raising $2,000 in the allotted time. $2,232 was raised in 90 seconds, with every dollar benefiting BackStoppers.
The game concluded with a fireworks display over Flyers Field.
