This weekend, hockey players from Lincoln-Sudbury Regional High School are lacing up their skates for a cause that is close to their hearts. The sixth annual Warriors 4 Warriors Benefit Hockey Game honors a former player who made the ultimate sacrifice.
First Lt. Scott Milley was a month into his first tour of duty in Afghanistan in 2010 when he died from enemy fire. He was 23 years old.
"It's traumatic and tragic and sad and shocking, it is all of those things put into this hole that's now in your heart," his father, Steve Milley, said.
In an instant, his father went from watching his son on the sidelines to losing him on the front lines. So when an idea for a charity hockey game in his honor came about, he was all in.
"It was a no brainer," Milley said.
For Scott's former coach, Peter Elenbaas, the game fulfills a promise he made to him.
"One night, he told me, 'Coach, if I go overseas, I'm nervous something is going to happen to me. If it does, don't forget me,'" Elenbaas said.
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They have never forgotten Scott, and with the benefit charity game against their rival, Concord-Carlisle High School, they raise money for the Milley foundation that was created in his honor.
"The one real solace I have is that Scott's sacrifice would be remembered," Milley said.
Over the last five years, the teams have raised nearly $70,000 for the foundation that helps veterans, military families and anyone in need.
"It's more than just a normal hockey game," boys varsity captain Seamus Fagan said. "It's a real community event and we're honoring someone who used to be just like us."
The games will be held at the New England Sports Center in Marlboro on Saturday, Dec. 16. To find out more, click here.
