City's Bravest, Finest meet on gridiron to help veterans

Marine Sgt. Sean DeBevoise's unit was patrolling Zaidon, a rural area of Iraq in western Baghdad province, when insurgents attacked. He took four bullets in the late-night ambush on May 16, 2006, one in the head, one that paralyzed his left leg, another in his left shoulder and one that grazed his right ankle. Doctors told him he'd likely never walk again.

"But I like proving people wrong," DeBevoise, 25, said Sunday afternoon from Margiotta Hall, which overlooks James M. Shuart Stadium at Hofstra University. There, he watched the annual football game between New York City firefighters and police officers, the 38th Fun City Bowl on behalf of Hope For The Warriors, a national North Carolina-based nonprofit that seeks to help U.S. military injured in Iraq.

Part of the ticket proceeds from the Bravest Football Club, the New York City Fire Department, will go to the nonprofit.

Today, DeBevoise, a former three-sport athlete at Clarkstown North High School in New City, walks with a noticeable limp. But for the past six months walking on his own has meant a semblance of normalcy. "I'm finally free again," he said.

And for that he thanks heaven and Hope for Warriors. "They've done a lot for me," DeBevoise said. He said the organization has eased his disability by giving him a deck with a hot tub, installing wood floors and widening doorways in his home.

The group has a Big Apple Run For The Warriors in New York City on May 30 and another run in Babylon on Nov. 14.

While the game is a fundraiser, it also remains highly competitive for its athletes, many of whom played college football. By virtue of a 17-7 victory Sunday, the police team, New York's Finest, advances to the National Public Safety Football League national championship game, June 12 in Phoenix.

And some fans are as passionate as those who follow the Jets and Giants. There were tailgaters in the parking areas, fans with replica jerseys and T-shirts, even signs and banners.

"It is all about the game," said Staten Island's Erin Sullivan, 27, whose father, Bill Sullivan, is the defensive coordinator for the police and retired from the mounted squad. "It's their Super Bowl. Beat the fire department. It's the goal, the end-all."