They will play a football game tonight at Widener University in Chester. Just as they do every year.

Yes, it’s a little unusual to play a football game in late May. But not in Delaware County. This is not just any game. This is the annual Hero Bowl, when the best high school football players in the county collide, with the proceeds going to the Hero Scholarship Fund, which benefits the children of those killed in the line of duty. That includes the offspring of firefighters, police or EMT.

But even with those lofty parameters, tonight’s contest will have special meaning.

This has been a very difficult year for firefighters in this county.

We have lost two very special members of that rare breed of dedicated public servant this year.

Nick Picozzi II of Lower Chichester, and Michael D. Reagan Jr. both were killed in the line of duty. Picozzi was trapped in a house fire in Aston. Reagan succumbed to injuries suffered after he was trapped while battling a garage fire in Sharon Hill.

Reagan wanted to be a police officer. Picozzi left behind his wife, Stephanie, and two sons, Anthony and Danny.

It reminds us once again of the value of these dedicated volunteers, and how we too often take that service for granted.

Tonight there’s a chance, once again, to show how much we care. And you can do it by attending a football game showcasing the best talent in Delaware County.

Rest well, Nick and Michael. Your service is not forgotten.