Yes, on Friday I will attend another fallen Hero’s funeral. A life tragically taken by the actions of someone’s hate and violence. I’ve lost count of how many of these funerals I’ve attended in my 33 year career. Some days I’m glad I can’t remember them all. But then again I do.
Yes, it is personal for me. I’ve known many of them, worked with them, known their families, seen their blood, prayed over their lifeless bodies and tried to provide words of comfort and purpose to their families.
Yes, they are Heroes. Not because the way in which their lives ended, but because the way they lived them. Look into their lives.
Yes, they were public servants, COPS, law enforcement … but you will see they were also fathers, mothers, husbands, wives, sons, daughters, coaches, volunteers, mentors, trainers, scoutmasters, teachers, etc.
Yes, when we lose a Law Enforcement Officer we lose a protector, a servant, an implement of Justice; however we also lose a part of our community, a representation of what we all should aspire to be.
Yes, I will remember, always.
No, I will never surrender to the idea that this life, this calling, this service is not worth it. It is.
Why? Because even though one person took the life of a Hero; The Hero gave, improved, saved, and protected the lives of so many more before the end of their journey.
Pray for the Peacemakers. We all need them.
