Gautier Rotary Club shows appreciation for law enforcement officers

May 13, 2021

WXXV,

This week is National Police Week. Across the country, police departments honor those who have lost their lives while protecting their community.

In Gautier, the Rotary Club showed their appreciation to officers with their fourth Honorary Luncheon.

He says there is no place he’d rather be, retired Jackson County Sheriff Pete Pope shares a meal with some of Gautier’s police officers, showing his appreciation for their service. “I know what trying times these officers are going through today and my hats off to them for what they do for our community.”

After 40 years in law enforcement, Pope understands the need for officers to feel support from the community they protect. “They don’t meet the finest people in the world out late at night, 2 and 3 o’clock in the morning. When they get to associate with good people, like the people at the Rotary Club, it’s very pleasant.”

In 1962, National Police Week was started by President Kennedy, honoring officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice in service of the nation.

It’s luncheons like the one hosted by the Rotary Club that helps police understand that they are appreciated by the community, their hard work and sacrifice does not go unnoticed, and they have community support.

National Police Week is celebrated throughout the country from May 9^th through the 15^th. This year, 125 officers have lost their lives in the line of duty. Gautier Mayor Phil Torjusen said, “They come to work every day, leaving their families and they put their lives at risk in many cases. So, we want to show our appreciation for their service to this city.”

A lunch may seem small, but it’s a free meal and place where officers feel safe. Jackson County Sheriff Mike Ezell said, “It makes you feel good about what you’re doing and with all the things we see going on around the country, the support we have from our community here is just a wonderful blessing. Just take a breath, relax a little bit, enjoy the day, enjoy a meal, and share some fellowship.”