At the Vikings-Packers game on Oct. 15, U.S. Bank Stadium filled with cheers and applause for the recognition of one of St. Louis Park’s own.

Park’s assistant athletic director Shawn Mathews and her son Wyatt stood on the field, receiving the Hometown Hero honor on behalf of her husband Officer Bill Mathews, who passed away on Friday, Sept. 8 while clearing debris from Highway U.S. 12.

The Hometown Hero award honors individuals who have made a difference in their community.

Greg Bostrom, the Director of Entertainment for the Minnesota Vikings, said the organization felt the Hometown Hero award was the perfect platform to honor Officer Mathews’ commitment to the community, and that Bill was chosen to be honored after Shawn and Wyatt were brought into Winter Park to watch a vikings practice.

“We just thought if there was a chance to bring that story to the Vikings fanbase and have the opportunity to honor the family, that would be something we wanted to do,” Bostrom said.

Park athletic director Andy Ewald said that although he was not involved in the nomination process, he was elated to see the Mathews family being honored by the Vikings organization.

“I think it is a great gesture for the Vikings to do,” Ewald said.

Ewald said the city of Wayzata has plans to name a stretch of the highway after Officer Mathews. He said that the honors given by both the city of Wayzata and the Minnesota Vikings go a long way to preserving Officer Mathews’ heroism and service.

“Because of how impactful he was, people want to make sure his memory lasts,” Ewald said.

Bostrom said the Hometown Hero honor was created to promote recognition for those who have a major impact on the local community.

“There is no more fitting person for this recognition than someone like Bill Mathews,” Bostrom said.