As a community, we are all overwhelmed with shock, sorrow and anger at the brutal murder of four Lakewood police officers yesterday. Our police protect us, comfort us in times of emergency and maintain order for our society. They face daily threats, constant political pressure and ridicule from those who dislike authority.
It feels a bit superficial to say how much we appreciate our Ruston police department at this time. It's frustrating that it takes a tragedy like this to cause us to pause to say a much deserved and long overdue thank you for a job well done each and every day. But we should ~ and do ~ offer our heartfelt gratitude. We appreciate your sacrifice and dedication, not just at this emotional time but day in and day out.
And our hearts go out to our local police officers that are hurting at this loss. I encourage everyone to say thank you in person to Jeremy and his crew today.
Former police chief Sharon Reese is following the news from the east coast. She sends this message:
I am sickened by this event and my thoughts are with my law enforcement family in Pierce County. Ruston's Chief and Officers will be personally affected by this tragedy as they work closely with Lakewood PD on many occasions. Take care my friends and do anything you can to help your colleagues and neighbor agency through this difficult time. I'll be with you in spirit.
With Great Sadness,
Sharon Reese
Alexandria, VA
Former Chief, Ruston PD
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1 comment:
Karen,
Thank you for your kind words and encouragement. This is a very difficult time for all of us as we not only lost colleagues, but friends as well.
We have chosen this profession because we are dedicated to service, honor, professionalism, and to the community we serve. When a heinous act like this occurs, it is not only an attack on us as law enforcement, but it is an attack on society as a whole. It makes all of us in the law enforcement community stop, question, and rethink why we got in to this profession.
Words of encouragement and support by the community are paramount and it reminds us of why we do what we do and keeps us focused on maintaining our professionalism and protecting the community.
I would like to let everyone know that funds have been set up to assist with the families of the four murdered officers. All donations go directly to the families and will help the nine children who lost their parents go to college. The goal is to raise enough money to put them all through college when they get older. If anyone is interested in donating, they can send a check to:
Lakewood Police Independent Guild (LPIG) Benevolent Fund
PO Box 99579, Lakewood, WA 98499
In addition, all Forza coffee locations are accepting donations for the families of Lakewood's fallen four officers.
Cash or checks can be made out to the Lakewood Police Independent Guild (LPIG) or online by going directly to the Lakewood Police Independent Guild’s website at WWW.IPIG.US.
My condolences and deepest regrets go to the victim’s families, the Lakewood Police Department and their families, and the entire community. We lost four great officers and our thoughts and prayers are with all of them.
Sincerely,
Chief Jeremy Kunkel
Ruston Police Department
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