by Curtis D. Tucker
Posted: 02/05/15
Enid Cares-Law Enforcement Appreciation Day
Enid honored local law enforcement officers Wednesday at Convention Hall with the first ever Enid Cares-Law Enforcement Appreciation Day. The event was created and hosted by the Enid City Commission. The idea come from a local citizen who mentioned it to Commissioner Vanhooser. He in turn told Commissioner Wilson, who took it to new city manager Gerald Gilbert. That was all it took to get the ball rolling and Wilson went on to get the event organized.
There were uniformed officers on hand from the Enid and North Enid Police Departments, Oklahoma Highway Patrol, Garfield County Sheriff’s Office and Vance Air Force Base Security Squadron.
Keynote speakers for the event were District Attorney Mike Fields and Oklahoma Department of Public Safety Commissioner Michael Thompson. April Danahy was the emcee for the luncheon.
Keller Taylor and the EECCH staff put on a delicious buffet for those in attendance. Uniformed officers were honored by eating completely free.
The event began with a selection of song and dance numbers performed by the Enid High School Show Choir. Although they were limited on space to move about the students did an incredible job under the direction of Randy Johnson.
Danahy introduced each of the five law enforcement representatives with a brief biography. Mike Fields talked about the unique jobs that law enforcement officers have and reminded the crowd of the recent tragic death of Highway Patrol Trooper Nicholas Dees. Fields talked about the unwritten contract that exists between law enforcement officers and local residents. He reminded the audience that law enforcement officers put their lives on the line everyday.
Commissioner Michael Thompson, also a military man, spoke about the growing respect those in the military are receiving for their service. He said he has personally seen it grow over the past 10 years. He did point out that people are more likely to thank those enlisted men who have only served only a short period of time over an officer of the law who has served 20 years.
Five representatives from area law enforcement agencies sat on stage and spoke briefly about their appreciation for the local community.
Vance Air Force Base Chief Mater Sgt. Bruce McPherson said he was honored to be a part of the appreciation event. He described Enid as being one of the best assignments he's had.
Oklahoma Highway Patrol Lt. Ken Jordan was thankful for the 13 years he's spent in law enforcement and the opportunity he's had to serve this area.
Garfield County Sheriff Jerry Niles thanked the citizens for their support and mentioned the compliments that he receives about his officers. Niles daughter was in attendance and he asked the audience to thank the families of law enforcement officers.
Enid Police Department Chief Brian O'Rourke thanked his officers and support staff. He also commended the community support given by Enid.
North Enid Police Chief Rick Dominic talked about how his department has grown over the last few years.
It was great event that was well attended. Making this an annual event would be a great sign of our appreciation for those in law enforcement.
(Photos taken by staff photographer Curtis D. Tucker)
