“It is said that a person dies twice; once when they take their final breath. and later when their name is spoken for the last time.”

The Gold Star Game on Friday night between New Brighton and host Rochester will be the first of four throughout the WPIAL in 2021. The event is organized by the Gold Star Families to honor the fallen members of the United States Military dating back to World War II. Twenty players will be wearing the names of the fallen on the backs of their jerseys in lieu of their own.

Dana Tabay joined Matt Drzik on A.M. Beaver County to talk about the Gold Star Game, and the mission of Gold Star Families to “never forget” the names of those who’ve been lost to battle. Tabay spoke about the events that will occur during the pregame ceremony, and the depth of context that it will provide to not just the young players who may not be used to the grief and weight of losing service members, but to all in attendance who will be reminded why “freedom isn’t free.”

Tabay will join Jason Colangelo and Mike Azadian during halftime of the Gold Star Game, as the game will be broadcast on WMBA beginning with the pregame ceremony at 6:30 and kickoff at 7:00. The ceremony and game will also be livestreamed on the Trib Live High School Sports Network.

To watch the full interview between Matt and Dana, click on the Facebook feed below.