National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day

ALBANY, Ga. – Often times the bad gets highlighted rather than the good relating to law enforcement.

But, what should be talked about is the sacrifices they make.

As any minute they could get a life changing call.

And, while facing challenges with their job most have only one goal in mind help your community.

“It’s all I’ve ever cared to do. So, after getting out of the Marine Corps, I started my career in law enforcement in 1985 and still love it. As long as I can help somebody every day. I feel like I’m still doing something worthwhile. You know, we were talking earlier about, how only a lot of times the bad is noticed. There’s so much good peace officers do everyday that people never know about, these guys, women, men in law enforcement, not just in Georgia, but all across the nation. None of them make what they deserve to make. There’s no doubt in my mind. I’ve studied pay scales and in different areas. But, they do it because it’s in their heart, and they want to be that servant’s heart is what I’m trying to say. But, every day they go to work, and their work is unlike anybody else,” said  Sheriff Don Whitaker, Worth County Sheriff’s Office.

A key part of their mission is giving back to the community.

Ensuring accessibility for everyone.

And, striving to perform their duties to the best of their ability.

“I’ve been toting a weapon since 1979, and every day I get up and it’s something different, that faces me each day, gives me an opportunity to help people. It gives me an opportunity to help someone who might be less fortunate. Of course, I get to enforce the laws and bring those to justice that have broken laws and protect the people of my community. And, I think when we have a Law Enforcement Appreciation Day, it gives us an opportunity to look back on the past, look forward to the future. We can talk about the significance of things that have happened in our careers, how it’s evolved with socialization and how community policing, in the forefront now. And, of course, it’s a day to reflect on those that have lost their life with the ultimate sacrifice. To their communities and to the people that they love each and every day,” said Sheriff Billy Hancock, Crisp County Sheriff’s Office.

Law enforcement officers often make the ultimate sacrifice.

With some giving their lives to protect and serve others.

“People are also in the line of duty. I’ve encountered it many times over my career. I’ve been, a police officer since 1985. And, it is very sad that, as I’ve seen, some officers and troopers die in the line of duty, but they’re out there helping, trying to make a difference. But you know what? A lot of times the next day, even though it’s all over the news, nobody takes notice,” said Sheriff Whitaker.

So, make sure to show appreciation for your local law enforcement today…

As they make sacrifices for your community all year round.

Gabe Hutton reporting.

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