The reason I sent this in is because I feel that most of the publicity that our law enforcement receives is negative. Today the story is completely the opposite. For a little background for this story there are a few things that you may want to know.

My husband and I have always taught our children to respect law enforcement, firefighters, EMTs, soldiers, doctors, nurses and even teachers. We also went a little further. We told them that anytime that they see someone in uniform or that has representation of service, such as a veterans hat, that they should walk up to them and proudly tell them “Thank you for your service!” our kids have been doing this for as long as I can remember.

Wednesday evening, after church we went to Chic-fil-a. There, in a booth behind us, were two officers.

Without hesitation my children walked up to them and thanked them. This apparently touched the officers. When they had finished their meal, they walked out. A few moments later they walked back in with badge stickers for the kids — not just mine — and they even posed for a picture.

I did not tell them I was going to submit this to the paper. I honestly didn’t think to do it until after we were headed home, and my little ones were proudly sporting their police officer badges.

What finally convinced me to go ahead and do it was as I was rocking my son to sleep he looked at me and said, “Mommy, it so nice of the police guys to bring us badges. They are so nice.” It touched my heart that they not only showed appreciation, but that they also received appreciation back.

These two officers will never know how much it meant to these kids. My great niece Izzy was so excited that she was talking about it most of the way home. I pray that one day we can all appreciate our leaders, law enforcement, teachers, doctors, etc.

If I could say anything to these two men, I would say: Officer Willoughby and Officer Norris, I would like to Thank you so much for your service and thank you again for taking the time to do this for the kids. I am grateful for the inspiration that you give the children in our community.

Brandi Cash

LaGrange