Battle of the Badges aids Make-A-Wish

(Pictured Above) Clear Lake firefighters Davin McLeod and Erik Myers show off the hardware. (Right) Clear Lake policeman Zach Hall shows off his skating skills. -Photos by Chris Barragy

The 6th Annual Battle of the Badges was held on Friday, Feb. 19, in Mason City.  The hockey match is played yearly for Make-A-Wish, with law enforcement vs. firefighters and EMS personnel.

The event began with a ceremonial puck drop with several local “Wish Kids” and an honor guard presentation.

The first goal of the game was scored by Hayden Despenas, a recent wish recipient and honorary firefighter.

Through donations from several local sponsors, ticket sales, an auction, and other activities, the total amount raised for this year’s game was $41,958.  All proceeds go to Make-A-Wish.

During the game, Battle of the Badges was awarded the “Gold External Event of the Year” for 2015 by Make-A-Wish of Iowa.  The award is granted to the external event with the highest about of money raised in the entire State of Iowa.  Battle of the Badges has received the award for 2013, 2014 and 2015, and is anticipated to again be the highest in the state.

This year’s game ended with the Firefighter and EMS team winning, 7-2, over the Law Enforcement team.