The commemorative Lokomotiv patch the Red Wings wore opeing night to honor their fallen friends.

DETROIT – The Detroit Red Wings opened their 2011-12 season wearing a special patch on their jerseys in honor of three former Red Wings who were members of the Lokomotiv Yaroslavl hockey team (KHL) who died tragically in a plane crash early September in Russia.  The jerseys worn by the Red Wings in their season-opener on Oct. 7, 2011 are being sold to raise funds for the families of the former Wings.

Recognized on the patch are the initials of Brad McCrimmon, the Red Wings Assistant Coach from 2008-2011 and Red Wings defenseman from 1990-1993; Ruslan Salei, Red Wings defenseman last season; and Stefan Liv, who was drafted by the Red Wings in 2000 and was a goaltending prospect from 2000-2007.  The patch contains the initials BM*RS*SL in red letters along with a blue stripe.  Red and blue are the Lokomotiv team colors.

Each jersey contains a unique tag imprinted on the inside with game date and opponent as well as the words “Love For Lokomotiv”, guaranteeing that the jersey is a part of the Red Wings one-time opening night set.  Each jersey remains without autograph but can be autographed and personalized by the individual player if requested by the purchaser.  All purchasers will also receive a photograph from the Oct. 7, 2011 game vs. Ottawa depicting the jersey being worn.

The jerseys are only available directly through the Detroit Red Wings merchandise department.  For individual pricing and availability, fans should contact Christi Forgacs, Red Wings Merchandise Authentics Supervisor, at Christi.Forgacs@olyent.com or 313-396-7583.