Heroes honor their hero

At the Aug. 12 Battle of the Heroes in Mt. Airy, family members of the late Richie Alford, who died earlier this year saving two drowning swimmers in Florida, are presented with framed pictures of Richie when he participated in the Battle of the Heroes in previous years. Family members holding pictures include Richie’s wife Pam Alford, stepson Bill Redmon and sister Kimberly McDaniel. Richie’s son Michael Alford and grandson Lucas Alford also attended the game and ceremony. MATTHEW OSBORNE/Staff

Easton Foundation President Casey Lizama and vice president Sonya Hix address the crowd at halftime. MATTHEW OSBORNE/Staff

First responders from Hall, Habersham and Banks counties take a knee at the beginning of the Battle of the Heroes to remember retired firefighter Richie Alford, who passed away earlier this year. MATTHEW OSBORNE/Staff

Baldwin firefighter Hayden Benfield takes it to the house all by himself in the first half. MATTHEW OSBORNE/Staff

Kendrick Teasley picks off a pass in the end zone for Habersham-Banks. MATTHEW OSBORNE/Staff

Tomorea McGlocking celebrates a fourth down stop in the first half. MATTHEW OSBORNE/Staff

Easton Foundation founder Casey Lizama is deep in thought during the moment of silence. MATTHEW OSBORNE/Staff

Band of Blue members enjoyed being the musical backdrop for the Heroes. MATTHEW OSBORNE/Staff

Band of Blue members Connor Brookshire and Blake Howard squared off in a punt-pass-kick. MATTHEW OSBORNE/Staff