Gerri’s Journal – June 26, 2018
I sat recently at the corner of 17th and Main Street in Durango waiting for the signal light to change. Suddenly I had a flash back of another time sitting at that same signal years ago.
An officer from the Durango Police Department rolled up in his cruiser, red lights flashing, jumped out in full uniform, over-rode the traffic signal and ordered the traffic to stop from all directions.
Wondering what was happening, I looked up to see a black hearse approaching the intersection with a long funeral procession following. They turned at the intersection and headed toward the cemetery. Nothing unusual about that I thought. What was a profound site was the way that Police Officer snapped to attention and saluted the hearse and the family procession that followed.
I wept as I saw the intentional honor and respect that ‘cop on the beat’ displayed that day. It touched my life back then and it still touches my life now especially amid all the disrespect our law enforcement officers endure today. Mostly it repeatedly touches my life because that Durango Police Officer was back then “PD 130”, my son.
Having family members who are in law enforcement, this really touched my heart. I have been privileged to witness first hand how the officers show respect to the fallen. Oh that we all would show that kind of respect. I thank God for our men in blue! Thank you for sharing this wonderful tribute. God bless your son
This story touched my heart!
We need to know that there are policemen that need to be honored and respected for what they do for our communities.
Thank you God for men like Roger & Gerri’s son!
I was recently in a funeral procession and made an effort to wave a thank you to all the police officers along the path that stopped traffic so that we could all get to the cemetery at the same time. This blog was the impetus for that. I agree in this day and age we do need to honor our police and fire personnel. They are on my prayer list to pray for now along with government officials and issues.
Joanne:
Thanks so much for your comments. It’s really encouraging that the post has encouraged you to share that ‘friendly wave’ at other cops on their beat. Who knows when just such an effort will ‘make that officer’s day.’
Blessings,
Roger and Gerri