Veteran Michael Rudock Honors Military Family with Empty Seat at Bears Game

Ten years ago, Michael Rudock of Horsham, Pennsylvania, felt a connection to the Hershey Bears, but it didn’t take much for him to become a fan. “Just the fact that it’s a real hockey town,” Rudock says, is what brought him to GIANT Center rooting for the Bears. 

In his ten years as a fan, Rudock has seen many big games and big moments in front of big crowds in Chocolatetown, especially games from last year’s Calder Cup championship team and this year’s historical regular season, followed by a run to the Calder Cup. This year, the atmosphere will be a little bit different for Rudock, especially considering what’s seating in his seat.

Rudock noticed something throughout his days cheering on Hershey, in the fact that they don’t have a designated empty seat for prisoners of war, which he accurately points out laid down so many sacrifices in order for Americans to enjoy any freedom, let alone a hockey game.

“People forget that we are here because of them,” Rudock says. “Without them, we don’t have this moment, this special night of the Calder Cup.”

Rudock brought something with him to occupy his seat and honor the sacrifices made by not only American soldiers, but the ones in his own family. Rudock’s grandfather’s flag will be on his seat as Michael and him both watch the Bears game six, a Hershey team that could deliver a championship to thousands of loyal fans, including the Rudock family.

“He served in Vietnam, he served until the end of Vietnam,” Rudock told Chocolate Hockey. “He wishes he was with me at a sporting event. It’s just a very respectful thing.”

When Hershey packs the GIANT Center to capacity, it’s important to remember everyone has a story. The Rudock family’s is certainly a special one.