We have our fun with Philadelphia Flyers fans and their rather frightening antics. But we never believe even their most heinous acts come from some sort of intrinsic evil -- they're not Raiders fans. They come from a tremendous passion.

Last night, they and their franchise exhibited both passion and compassion as they paid tribute to police officer Stephen Liczbinski, who was killed in the line of duty back on May 3. The Philadelphia Daily News had coverage of their poignant honor before Game 3 between the Flyers and the Pittsburgh Penguins:

As Liczbinski's picture was flashed on the scoreboard and projected on the ice, the Wachovia Center erupted in an ovation that rang into the heavens. It was the perfect salute for Liczbinski, who was a rabid Flyers fan. The cheering lasted a full 20 seconds, and the Flyers and Penguins players joined in by respectfully tapping their sticks on the ice.

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Flyers forward Scott Hartnell lives in Old City and feels the Philadelphia vibe daily. He is very well aware how deeply Liczbinski cared about the Flyers. Hartnell was touched to learn that Liczbinski's son, Matt, led a cheer of "Let's Go Flyers" at the services for his fallen father Friday. "When I heard about the people inside and outside the church chanting . . . it was really touching," Hartnell said. "It really brings a tear to your eye."

The chant at the funeral was one of the most genuine moments of puckhead passion we've ever come across; the hearse that drove to the cemetery even had a Flyers sign in the back window. At last night's game, Philadelphia Mayor Michael Nutter donated the city's box at the arena to the officers of the 24th district.

Forget the political aftermath of the killing and the Flyers' Game 3 loss, even if for just a moment, and remember Stephen Liczbinski and those who proudly serve. Philadelphia fans did last night, and it was a tremendous tribute from a group of fanatics we're all too eager to malign.

Related: Stanley Cup Playoffs, Hockey Fans