To the Editor:

It is the measure of a community, to unite under trying times, to face adversity with both pride and compassion. It was cold as I sat on a blanket last night, watching the Newtown Nighthawks football team put their record on the line in a playoff game vs Ridgefield! A game marked by great plays and even greater sportsmanship for both teams.

No, it wasn't the 12-0 won-loss record on the line ... but a record of pride and compassion and love! The Nighthawks showed resolve battling back from the adversity of being down 28-7, and lost the game 35-33 when a two-point conversion late in the fourth quarter failed. But through the tears the players, coaches, students, and parents remain undefeated where it matters most ... in the game of community, compassion and love ... as they honored the "26" all season ... and will continue to do so in this trying time.

Richard A. English

3 Curry Drive, Newtown                    December 4, 2013