We All Need Heroes
By Jackie Dover
Have you ever been pulled over for speeding or “rolling through” a stop sign? These are such frustrating experiences that can feel like a waste of time and can be overly stressful as you try to find your insurance and registration without being suspicious. At least that’s what I think when I am pulled over. It is stressful, but have you ever thought about the stress on the other side of that stop. The officer is walking up to a vehicle with an unknown amount of people and unknown intentions. Are you a family out on an ice cream run or did you just rob a house down the street? The fact the officer still does their job without knowing what may happen is heroic.
President John Kennedy established national Police Week in 1962 to recognize and honor law enforcement officers with a special acknowledgment of those who have lost their lives in the line of duty. Events are held throughout the country in celebration of Law Enforcement during this week. If you get the chance, please show kindness and respect to all of the men and women who put on the badge and put their lives on the line to keep us all safe. You can show gratitude and support by thanking any officers you see out and about. If an officer has gone above and beyond for you, write a letter and show your appreciation.
Locally, Seniors and Lawmen Together (SALT) an organization established to bring together seniors and law enforcement to address unmet safety needs and allow seniors to meet and interact with law enforcement in a friendly and positive environment will host the Law Enforcement Memorial Ceremony. This event will be at 10:00 am on Thursday, May 9 at the Cape Bible Chapel, 2911 Kage Rd, Cape Girardeau, Mo. This event will recognize all the fallen heroes who died in the line of duty in our area. This event offers family, friends and coworkers of those who have lost their lives to remember them with respect, gratitude and honor the men who made a difference in their communities and paid the ultimate price. SALT honors those from the counties of Bollinger, Butler, Cape Girardeau, Dunklin, Iron, Madison, Mississippi, New Madrid, Pemiscot, Ripley, Scott, Stoddard and Wayne.
What makes a hero? Someone who is willing to give of themselves and sacrifice for the betterment of others. Someone willing to put themselves in danger to step in front and protect those who are weaker and more vulnerable. A hero runs into danger and helps guide others out of the line of fire. Law Enforcement have a tough job and get little respect and sometimes little pay and recognition. Please take the time to acknowledge all that our first responders do to allow us safety and security as we go about our days and nights.
If you are a senior or have questions about senior issues, please call Aging Matters 800-392-8771. Because….Aging Matters.