OFFICERS GUNNED DOWN

Today’s news tells of 4 police officers gunned down in Parkland, Washington.

Many of us likely know an officer...no not through breaking the law. Maybe there's one who lives in the neighborhood, or attends our church, or we've met through an aquaintance, or is a friend.

Cindy & I are in that category. For much of the last 25 years, Cindy has worked with Vicky. Cindy & Vicky are best friends. Vicky’s husband, Mike, is a police officer for our city, and has been for nearly 30 years.

Some officers joined the police force because their family members were officers before them. Some join because of the power the position gives them. Some may enjoy the notoriety. I'm guessing none of them join because of the money...because they aren't that well paid. Especially considering that they, at any time, on any day, could come across that ‘one bad guy’ who could mean the difference of them going home that day.

I believe most officers are there because they wish to uphold the law, and see that persons who obey the law, aren’t taken advantage of by those who don’t.

These 3 men and 1 woman officer, it appears, were gunned down in cold blood...ambushed. They had not arrived at a crime scene. There was no warning. They were enjoying a few minutes as comrades as they prepared to start their day, to provide safety and well being for the citizens of their city.

One would presume there are spouses and children at home, who just a few days ago celebrated a day of thanksgiving with their loved one...and now must prepare to say goodbye.

I would hope that this would never happen to the officer that lives down your street, or attends your church, or known through an aquaintance, or who is your friend.

A sad day in Parkland, Washington…and in our land.


Dan