The Bedford police and fire departments faced off on a softball field Tuesday night — a National Night Out tradition — in a game dedicated to a former police lieutenant who died earlier this year.

National Night Out is an annual event held on the first Tuesday in August to promote neighborhood safety and positive police-community relationships.

Communities across the country participate in different activities on National Night Out, including block parties, cookouts, and parades. In Bedford, it’s usually celebrated with a softball game between the police and fire departments.

This year’s game was dedicated to the late Lt. Mike Bernard , a former professional wrestler who served in New Hampshire law enforcement for 25 years. Bernard passed away unexpectedly on Feb. 22.

Players on both

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