Posted on Wed, May. 14, 2008
Before public-address announcer Lou Nolan could ask the fans to observe a moment of silence for slain police officer Stephen Liczbinski, the Flyers faithful gave their own spontaneous tribute.
As Liczbinski's picture was flashed on the scoreboard and projected on the ice, the Wachovia Center erupted in an ovation that rang into the heavens. It was the perfect salute for Liczbinski, who was a rabid Flyers fan. The cheering lasted a full 20 seconds, and the Flyers and Penguins players joined in by respectfully tapping their sticks on the ice.
Liczbinski, a sergeant in the 24th District, was killed May 3 while responding to a bank robbery in Port Richmond.
Flyers forward Scott Hartnell lives in Old City and feels the Philadelphia vibe daily. He is very well aware how deeply Liczbinski cared about the Flyers. Hartnell was touched to learn that Liczbinski's son, Matt, led a cheer of "Let's Go Flyers" at the services for his fallen father Friday.
"When I heard about the people inside and outside the church chanting . . . it was really touching," Hartnell said. "It really brings a tear to your eye."
The Liczbinski family attended last night's game as guests of the team. Liczbinski's wife, Michelle, said the family was moved by the pregame ceremony.
"The outpouring of love and support that my family and I have received over the past several days has been very comforting. We are forever grateful to all of you who have said a prayer for Stephen and our family or have offered to help us in so many ways. We could never thank you for all that you have done," she said in a statement.
"We would also like to thank the Philadelphia Flyers organization for their tremendous support through this very difficult time. Stephen loved the Flyers. They were a part of his family. Thank you to everyone who attended tonight's game and provided such a touching tribute to Stephen. We will never forget tonight. Thank you and God Bless."
On the day of Liczbinski's funeral, the hearse that brought his body to the cemetery had a Flyers sign in the back window. *
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