Shield a Badge

On May 10, Concho County Sheriff Sergeant Stephen Jones and Deputy Sheriff Samuel Leonard were both shot and killed while responding to a complaint about a dog. This was in Eden, Texas. The altercation occurred as both deputies made contact with the subject at a residence. The subject shot both deputies and critically wounded another city employee. The subject later surrendered. Deputy Leonard was 26 years old and had only been in law enforcement for 18 months. Sergeant Jones, 34, served with Concho Country SO for 8 years. Texas has lost 21 officers in the line of duty so far this year.

Every day our police officers put their lives on the line to protect us. When we pray for the officers Safety, Good Judgment, and Safe Return Home, we are praying for their protection. We must also pray for their mental safety. On a daily bases, officers see and deal with the worst of society. They see hatred and disrespect against others – sometimes family members, sometimes children, others complete strangers.

I am so proud of my Brother Knights across this great State of Texas and their support of our Police, Fire, and First Responders. Several councils continue to adopt officers from their communities and are praying for them daily. I enjoyed visiting with some of you at the Program Table State Convention where I had some information about the Shield a Badge program.

If you would like to start a Shield a Badge program in your council, please contact me at pghenz@yahoo.com. This program does qualify for a Community Program and make sure you complete the Fraternal Program Report Form #10784.