The Silent Heroes: Why We Need Police

People often forget how important police are. Think about places where there are no police. Safety is not guaranteed. It's all about luck and hoping people are good. But police officers put their lives on the line every day. They wear a badge that comes with a heavy price. Recently, Sgt. Terri Sweeting-Mashkow, a 47-year-old officer, was killed in the line of duty. She was trying to evict a man when he shot her and another person. This tragic event reminds us of the risks police officers take. According to reports, 95 officers have been killed this year alone. Each number represents a family torn apart and a community in shock. Attending a police officer's funeral is a sobering experience. The funeral for Sgt. Sweeting-Mashkow was no different. Thousands of officers from all over the country came to pay their respects. It was a powerful display of unity and respect. The ceremony included a color guard, a moving bagpipe performance, and a flyover by helicopters. It was a tribute to a life lost in the line of duty. Law enforcement is not just a job; it's a calling. Officers like Sgt. Sweeting-Mashkow and the author's son-in-law choose this profession because they want to make a difference. They know the risks, but they do it anyway. They are driven by a sense of duty and honor. The author's son-in-law is a great example of this dedication. He once returned hundreds of dollars and a wallet he found. He didn't keep the money because he knew it wasn't his. This act of honesty shows the integrity of many officers. They are not in it for the money or fame. They do it because they believe in the noble cause of protecting their communities. The funeral service was emotional. The 21-gun salute was loud and startling. The author's granddaughter was safely away from the noise. The family rode home in silence, reflecting on the day's events. The author held his granddaughter and prayed that they would never have to attend another such funeral.