Widow of fallen Milwaukee Police Officer Rittner throws out first pitch at Brewers game

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) – The Milwaukee Brewers honored fallen Milwaukee Police Officer Matthew Rittner Monday.

Rittner’s widow, Caroline, threw out the first pitch, and members of the Milwaukee Police Department sang the national anthem.

The team also presented Caroline with a jersey bearing Rittner’s name that hung in their clubhouse during spring training.

“To celebrate someone like that who dedicates his life to serving others, I think it’s a special tribute,” said Brewers fan Casey Vulling.

“It means a lot,” said Milwaukee Police Captain Derrick Harris. "After last week’s trial, kind of reliving those tragic moments over and over again, having the Brewers do such a kind thing, it means a lot to us.”

Caroline Rittner was surrounded by her husband’s former coworkers as she threw out the first pitch.

“I think today meant a lot for her, to actually come and be surrounded by the tactical enforcement unit. I know she likes to come visit a lot, so anytime we can get the guys together I know she really enjoys it,” said Capt. Harris.

The mound visit also brought back memories. The Rittners were married at Miller Park in 2017, and Matthew threw out the first pitch that day.

“She started to get emotional, but be happy at the same time. I think it’s just part of that healing process,” said Capt. Harris.

“It’s really our honor to do this tonight,” said Brewers Manager Craig Counsell.

“Not only was he part of this community -- a huge part of this community, but he was a big Brewers fan. And so I think he would enjoy this, and it’s good to bring something that was special to him and honor him in that place,” said Counsell.

“He was an awesome fan, so to walk out there on the field, he would’ve been ecstatic about that,” said Capt. Harris.

This honor comes less than a week after Rittner’s killer, Jordan Fricke, was convicted in the officer’s death.