Community Hits Home Run for Families of Seminole Deputies

NEWS 9

SEMINOLE, Oklahoma -- Saturday, the community scored some big hits for the families of the two Seminole County deputies who were killed in the line of duty.

It was a day of softball in the park for law enforcement and the people of Seminole County.

"Our mom and dad are playing softball out here for charity," said Chris Lester.

But in the charity game, the money raised will go to the families of Marvin Williams and Chase Whitebird who were killed by a man they were trying to arrest last month.

"We just wanted to show our support for these families. It was such a tragedy. We just wanted to be a part of it and show our support with everybody else," said Lisa Vaughn.

The two deputies were integral parts of this tight-knit community, and were pretty well-known by all, so it was easy for many to give up their weekend to help out.

"It just kind of brings everybody together and just let's people know that life does go on and we can make a difference when something tragic happens," Phillip Smith said.

The residents of Seminole felt it was the least they could do for the deputies who made the ultimate sacrifice to protect them all.

"All of us want to show compassion to the families that have sacrificed so much and we're kind of healing together on this," Steve Saxon said.

The highlight of the day came with the touchdown of a police helicopter and NEWS 9's chopper SkyNEWS 9 HD.

"I just think that this is a part of pure Oklahoma anytime one of our families stumbles like this, we can always count on thousands to be there to pick them up," Saxon said.

The recognitions didn't end there, in a ceremony Saturday night the Oklahoma Sheriff's Association presented the families of the deputies the Sheriff's Cross award. The award is given for deputies who give their lives to protect citizens.

More on News9.com:

- Families of Fallen Seminole Deputies Helped By Foundation
- Friends, Family Say Goodbye to Fallen Deputy
- Fallen Seminole County Deputy Honored at Funeral
- Hundreds Attend Vigil to Honor Fallen Deputies
- Questions Arise About Seminole Deputies Shooting Case
- Families of Murdered Seminole Deputies Remember, Mourn
- Gunman to Face Death Penalty in Seminole Shoot-Out
- Family of Third Seminole Shooting Victim Speaks Out
- Fallen Seminole County Deputy Honored at Funeral