Officer Andrew Widman 1978-2008

They say a picture is worth a thousand words; they also say that a good picture tells a story. I did not take the picture to the left - that photo is courtesy of the Fort Myers Police Dept. But anyone familiar with military/law enforcement funerals would immediately know the story being told by the photo I took below. We arrived in Fort Myers late Friday night, July 18. We did not know until a couple of days later, that early that morning, Officer Andrew Widman paid the ultimate price - he was shot by an assailant as he responded to a call. I never knew Officer Widman, nor his family. What made this jump out at me is he was only about a month and a half younger than I am, and also had three young children. So often we are quick to criticize law enforcement, i.e. "Where's a cop when you need one?", "Dunkin Donuts must be safe right now..." But the reality is that these men and women, all across the country, willingly put their lives on the line every time they put on their uniforms, and most of the time they never hear a thank you. Most of the time, all they get is a rude sarcastic comment, when all they are doing is their job. Most of the time, they are second guessed by people and politicians who think they could do a better job. We take time on Memorial Day to remember fallen police officers, fire fighters, soldiers, ect. But take time today, tommorrow, 2 weeks from now - thank a soldier when you see them. Thank the police officer you see in the store. Give them a smile; they need it. Teach your kids to respect law enforcement; it'll make their job, and yours, easier.
So thank you, Officer Widman. I don't live in Fort Myers; but there is no difference in what you do and what the men and women who serve where I live. Thank you, to all those who wear the uniform and put your lives on the line every day.

This photo below is of the "missing man formation" that was flown over the graveside service. These helicopters came pounding over where we are staying. The boys enjoyed seeing them, but it was also an opportunity to talk with them about those who put their lives on the line for us every day. You can also see more pictures here, courtesy of NaplesNews.com.