VALDOSTA — On Friday, Jan. 9, the City of Valdosta, along with municipalities and other organizations who support law enforcement agencies across our country, will observe Law Enforcement Appreciation Day (L.E.A.D.). The national observance was created by the Federal Bureau of Investigation National Academy Associates (FBINAA) to showcase the rewarding—yet often challenging—career field of law enforcement.

Mayor John Gayle will present Chief of Police Brian Childress with a L.E.A.D. proclamation on Thursday, Jan. 8, at 10 a.m., at the Valdosta Police Department on behalf of the 149 sworn personnel, 24 non-sworn support personnel and 13 part-time employees and their commitment to serve and protect. (Mayor Gayle is presenting the proclamation on Thursday, due to the fact that he and the City Council will be at the scheduled Mayor/Council Retreat on Jan. 9 during the L.E.A.D observance.)

“Being an officer of the law is not just a job, it’s a calling,” said Chief Childress. “The men and women of law enforcement leave their families every work day, knowing that there is the possibility they might not come back home. That dedication is what makes them special people who deserve the recognition for this day of appreciation”.

Citizens may show their appreciation of law enforcement on Law Enforcement Appreciation Day on Jan. 9 in a number of ways:

· Thank a police officer.

· Wear blue clothing in support of law enforcement on Jan. 9.

· Send a card of support to your local police department.

· Write a positive letter to the editor of the newspaper.

· Share a story about a positive law enforcement experience on social media.

· Ask local students to write letters in support of law enforcement.

· Show your support through local media outlets.

“Our law enforcement personnel are professional, courteous, and ready to protect the public at all times,” said Mayor Gayle. “It is my opinion that every day should be Law Enforcement Appreciation Day, and I personally sleep better at night knowing that our city is under their watch. I encourage citizens to find ways to show their appreciation and support to some of our community’s finest men and women, on Friday.”

Sementha Mathews: Public Information Officer