Each and every day, as we get up and go about our daily lives, grabbing breakfast on the way out the door, ushering kids to child care or school, reporting in to the office or meeting with clients, there is a force working in the background to ensure that we are able to do those things in peace. Whether it's in St. Louis, Little Rock, Seattle, L.A., Raleigh or anywhere in between, police officers are working on our behalf, each day potentially facing danger, so that we can enjoy our freedom to the fullest. Unfortunately, sometimes the dangers they face are fatal.
In March of 2011, in the town of Athens, Georgia, two officers were shot in the line of duty. Both officers were shot by the same suspect. Only one went home to his family. Officer Elmer "Buddy" Christian lost his life in a senseless crime, thought to be one man avenging his brother's death by law enforcement from years earlier. Officer Christian left behind a wife and two children.
This August, the fallen officer's family, as well as the family of injured officer Tony Howard, will be receiving some much-needed help from the country music community. Country singer, Colt Ford, who knew both officers, took it upon himself to organize an event to raise funds for the families in need. On August 16th, Colt Ford, along with James Otto, Jason Aldean and Rhett Atkins, will perform in a benefit concert at the Georgia Theater.
Just as police officers everywhere are part of an unspoken brotherhood, it is events such as these that show the same kind of unity that threads itself through the country music community. It is commendable that these artists would give of their time and talents to help two individual families. It speaks volumes to the understanding that this can happen anywhere, to any officer, and that we as citizens, need to truly appreciate the sacrifice that our police forces make for us.
While it is good news that the families in Georgia will receive help, there are families right here in St. Louis who are dealing with similar circumstances. If you have never taken a moment to visit The BackStoppers website, please do so now. You may be surprised to find the number of fallen officers from your very own precincts.
BackStoppers rushes in to help the families of fallen police officers and other emergency responders within mere hours of their loss. While husbands, wives and children face the shock and grief of their loved one not coming home, they are at least not forced to deal with financial loss at the same time. BackStoppers provides help in a variety of ways, including the cost of monthly bill payments, medical and dental care, educational assistance, a Christmas fund and more. Whether you see your precinct on the list, or just want to make sure your community is ready to respond to a tragedy, BackStoppers would appreciate a donation of any size.
If you will be traveling to Georgia in August and are interested in attending the Colt Ford and Friends benefit concert, you may purchase tickets online.
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