Deputies join law enforcement, community mourning in Dallas
There is a camaraderie, a sense of family, among those who wear a badge and take an oath to protect and serve. While most people reacted in horror to the slaying of five police officers in Dallas, that feeling of grief and loss is felt even more intensively among those in the law enforcement community.
Sgt. Wade Rasch and Deputy Erik Peterson, both members of the St. Louis Coutnty Sheriff's Honor Guard, were able to join thousands of law enforcement from around the country in paying tribute Saturday to Dallas Police Officer Patricio "Patrick" Zamarripa. Officer Zamarripa was the last of the five fallen officers to be laid to rest.
The deputies' flight to Dallas was made possible thanks to Southwest Airlines, which donated hundreds of tickets to enable officers from around the country to make the trip and pay their respects.
Sgt. Rasch said he was thankful for the tickets and humbled to represent the Sheriff's Office in honoring Officer Zamarripa.
"It was heartwarming to see the show of support not only from law enforcement but also the citizens of Texas lining the overpass," said Rasch.
Sadly, it was less than a day after their return that the news broke of another mass shooting and killing of three officers in Baton Rouge.
Print
3917