This year’s classic football rivalry game between Traverse City West and Central High Schools will honor northern Michigan veterans and soldiers who have been killed in recent wars in Afghanistan and Iraq. The Central/West game, scheduled for Sept. 28, will be dubbed “The First Annual T.C. Patriot Game.” Commemorative shirts will be sold at the schools and at area new car dealerships prior to the game, as well as during the game. All the proceeds from shirt sales will be donated to Operation American Soldier, a local organization that sends support packages to active duty soldiers from northern Michigan, and to help build a memorial to fallen heroes. “We have several families from our area that paid the ultimate price in the support of our freedom,” says West coach Tim Wooer. “This is a way to honor all the fallen heroes and veterans.” Adds Central coach Tom Passineau: “Every soldier’s death leaves a gaping hole in our community; it’s a critical lesson for our students and players to learn.” Veterans and active duty military will welcomed into the game at no charge. Fallen heroes will be honored during a ceremony prior to the game, and the names of soldiers from northern Michigan who were killed in Afghanistan and Iraq will be read aloud. More information is available at the school athletic offices.