Gulfport Police Department hosts National Night Out

The Gulfport Police Department invited the community to a night of fun and fellowship in its National Night Out event on Tuesday.

The event encouraged community togetherness and, as GPD Public Information Officer Jason Ducre explained, showed that law enforcement officers are more than just the badge they wear.

“I hope that they see that we had officers out here dancing and cutting up with the kids, and, like I said, we’re just like them,” Ducre said. “I hope that’s one of the things they took from this.”

Families were able to interact with officers and community groups as well as enjoy food, games and music.

One community group in attendance was Rectitude Lodge #323, which grilled free hamburgers and hot dogs for attendees. Senior Warden Darron Murrill said that the group’s goal in attending the event was to continue to connect with communities across the region.

“We’re always in the Quarters, but to see us in Gulfport… we go to Biloxi, Diamondhead, we’re trying to reach all the sides of the Gulf Coast,” Murrill said.

Children enjoyed picking up free prizes — such as toys and books — and exploring various law enforcement vehicles. Young attendee Claire Neves described her favorite part of the event.

“It’s really fun to see all these other people having fun, and all of the games and stuff,” Neves said.

Ultimately, it’s what will come after National Night Out ends that will leave the biggest impact on Gulfport and the entire Gulf Coast community, as Rectitude Lodge #323 Worshipful Master Norman Laster added in a message of positivity.

“We’re all out here to have fun, and let’s continue this and spread it out throughout Gulfport so that we all can enjoy ourselves,” Laster said.