CLOSTER, N.J.—Heroes usually deny that they’ve done anything special, claiming that others would do the same under similar circumstances. But what follows the heroic act can be more extraordinary than the act itself.
On Saturday, June 1, members of the Wounded Warriors Amputee Softball Team arrived in Closter to participate in a fundraiser softball game supporting the organization’s summer camp for like-bodied children that they host each year. The inspiration and the appreciation they brought with them could not be measured by anyone attending the event.
According to their mission statement, the team serves “to inspire and educate others while enhancing the health and welfare of Wounded Warrior amputees. These men and women have sustained severe injuries resulting in amputation, and through extensive rehabilitation, they have become competitive athletes again.” By playing against able-bodied teams in exhibition games across the country, the members personify extreme perseverance and attitude as they raise funds to support their annual Kids Camp where 20 children between the ages of 8–12 attend with members serving as coaches and mentors.
The USA Patriots Softball Team arrived at Memorial Field in Closter on a flag-festooned float with fire engines, ambulances and police cars leading the way as sirens screamed and fans cheered. Before starting their warm-ups in preparation for the game against the Bergen County All-Stars, the Wounded Warriors team was escorted to the Closter 9/11 Memorial just up the road on Harrington Avenue. It was clear that they were touched by this powerful site as they spent time examining it, and hearing about its unique design from some of the men who helped build it. Before returning to the ball field, many of these veterans posed for photos and took selfies in front of the memorial.
Jim Oettinger, Closter Recreation parks director, organized the event and recalled fondly that it was a natural progression from the 1960s when Coach George Potterton brought “The King and His Court” to Closter for exhibition games over the years. Eddie Feigner, the King, was a Marine Corps veteran and traveled the world playing exhibition softball games often against military personnel at Army bases or on the decks of aircraft carriers. They donated ticket profits to charity and veteran assistance was one of their main goals.
The event was supported as well by Closter’s Leroy S. Mead Post 111 of the American Legion. On the hundredth anniversary of the post’s formation in 1919 following World War I, members presented a check for $500 to the Wounded Warriors summer camp fund.
Commander Dick Bishop said, “These men and women have endured so much as patriots for our country. The least we can do is honor them and provide them with funding for kids with amputations.”
Long-time Closter resident Tony Lupardi exclaimed, “This is the greatest thing that’s happened to the town in years! Just amazing.”
The Bergen County All Stars made up the home team against the visiting Wounded Warriors. Closter natives Mike La Stella, Eddie An, Chris Barbieri and others proudly took the field against the USA Patriots. Coaches Tom Kaechele, Greg Butler and Andy Sidlauskas cheered on the team.
Members of the Wounded Warriors team hail from across the country and served in the Air Force, Marines, Army and Navy. All have earned many service citations including Purple Hearts for injuries sustained on duty. Most served in Iraq and Afghanistan where they encountered Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) that proved devastating or other serious confrontations in battle. All, however, exemplify their gratitude for the gift of life and have chosen to share their strength and attitude with others.
After a trip next week to North Dakota, the team will be back on the East Coast for a weekend on Long Island as they play against Boomer Esiason and his All-Stars. For more information, visit thewwast.org.