By Michelle Church
You might be surprised to know that when a little child dreams of growing up to be a police officer, it is not necessarily the sirens and flashing lights that appeal to them. After attending the National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day at Bobtown Elementary, it is clear that what the children value about the officers is the safety and protection they provide.
National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day is celebrated throughout the country on January 9th each year. At Bobtown Elementary, the day began with the arrival and welcoming of the officers. The officers were then treated to lunch in the school library, followed by two assemblies. Students’ questions were read to the officers during the assemblies.
During the event, you could feel the family pride for the officers. One student, Reed Caldwell, showed his pride by dressing as an officer. His family has a history in law enforcement – his brother, Chris Caldwell, is an officer on the Morgantown Police Department, his uncle is an officer on the Cumberland Township Police Department and Reed’s mother, Amy Caldwell, is one of the organizers of the event.
The event was organized by Principal Rick Menear, School Secretary Tony Halbert and teachers Amy Caldwell, Lori Sagosky, Bobby Newman, Dena Ferek, Heather Conway, Ellen Heagy and emceed by Tracy Williams. “There’s so many more people behind the event as well, students, custodians, other teachers and cafeteria workers,” shared Amy Caldwell.
The students got to meet K-9 officers Dagen from the Greene County Sheriff’s office and K-9 officer Rocko from Lone Pine Fire Department. K-9 officers are trained with a special set of skills to preform their duties. Both dogs are able to recognize English, German and hand signals. Dagen’s handler is Sergeant Amanda Stauffer and his specialty is apprehension. Dan Halliday is a firefighter and the K-9 handler who works with Rocko; he told the audience about Rocko’s training for search and rescue. All the officers were treated to “thank you” baskets during the event; the K-9 baskets were filled with treats and toys.
An oft-quoted line of Mister Rogers reminds us to “Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.” One thing, repeated often between both the students and the police officers was the importance of protection and safety. When the students asked their questions to the officers, they asked what was their favorite part of the job. “Helping my community and protecting everybody,” said Chief Ryan Smith. When the students were asked what they most valued about the officers, they thanked them for keeping them safe in their school and their community.
The organizers would like to thank the sponsors. The event was largely funded by donations. “Two Rivers Campground and Marina donated all the food for the luncheon. We also received donations from Carmichaels Shop ‘n Save, Sons of American Legion #705, Accurate Excavating and Bam Door Boutique,” said Amy.