Charlotte, NC

In the wake of the attack on three Dade County (Fla.) police officers earlier today, let’s take a moment to reflect on our own keepers of the peace … and thank God they’re on the beat for us.

Of course, it wasn’t long ago when we lost two of our own: Officers Sean Clark, 34, and Jeff Shelton, 35. They were the first CMP officers to die in the line of duty in more than a decade. Today, in their (and other officers’) memories, a park is being considered for downtown Charlotte.

But have ya ever wondered what it’s like for them to be on patrol? Not only do they cruise the streets, visually studying the area for anything suspicious, but they have to keep their eyes peeled for every vehicular infraction, from inoperative taillights and expired license plates to DUIs and stolen cars. Of course, they have calls coming in from dispatch at times, directing them to a specific location to either remedy a crime or serve as back-up for another officer.

No matter where they are on the streets (or otherwise), they’re in a potential danger-zone. If a simple Volkswagen is pulled over for an expired tag, they have to be prepared in the event they come face-to-face with a trigger-happy driver or passenger. The same is true for any location call they receive; even the most seemingly harmless traffic stop or location-call could be their last on earth!

They also have to be prepared in the event they have to render first aid, whether CPR or simple tourniquet. Often, they have to use empathetic psychology, whether to talk down a suicide attempt or calm down a distraught parent.

And, while negotiating these, they have to abide by strict departmental rules and regulations themselves. To do otherwise can not only get them suspended/fired, but also can be enough to allow a suspect to walk away free on technicalities.

Now … imagine doing these things for up to twelve hours a day, six days a week, and perhaps be “on call” after-hours. And try to have a family life. And try to have a social or church life. And try to work on house projects. And handle any grief, guilt, nightmares or stress that comes from the job. Could you handle it?

So the next time you see a Charlotte-Mecklenburg police officer, remember to thank him or her for their hard work. After all, you can never tell: It might be the last time you see that officer in good health … or even alive!

They put themselves on the line every single day of the year … so we can live safely and peacefully here in the Queen City. And, for that measure of devotion and love for our people … our city … WE THANK THEM ALL!