End of Watch

So many things that I want to write about.  Two days ago we had another school shooting, and we are about a week removed from the verdicts concerning Kyle RIttenhouse and Ahmaud Arbery.  I will cover these two subjects in the next two posts, but I do want to share my thoughts on what is happening locally in our community. 

Last week here in Altoona, PA we remember correctional facility officer Rhonda J. Russell.  She was accidentally shot by another police officer who was aiming at the criminal that had Rhonda’s firearm.  Even though it saddens my heart to hear of a law enforcement officer fallen in the line of duty, I was happy to see how this city and county rallied in support to mourn in her passing.  Last week we had a big funeral procession that was accompanied by any offices in vehicles, motorbikes, with ambulance and firetrucks.  Flags around town were put on half-mast the day of the shooting and also on the day of the funeral. 
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This tragic death in an officer on duty is just a reminder how difficult and stressful it is to serve as a law enforcement officer.  I won’t keep this article long, because the only thing I have to say is simply that we should all remember that serving as a police officer is never easy and they put their life on the line every time they put on that uniform.

They are here among us to watch over and protect us.  Many times, that have to make quick acting decisions that test their courage, constitution, and analysis of risk.  So do your best to treat them with dignity and respect.  And remember, you may not be working on Thanksgiving or Christmas, but they are working, away from their family, out on the road, investigating crimes, and doing their best to protect the peace. 

So when you have a chance and opportunity to see a police officer, smile, shake their hand, and just tell them thank you for their service.  Sometimes these small gestures can mean a lot to someone’s day.  Yeah, even if a police officer pulls you over, tell them thank you and let them do their job well. 

So, to all police officers reading this, stay safe out there, thank you for all that you do, stay safe, healthy, and find ways to responsibly relieve your stress.  God bless you all, men and women who serve.