The family members of some of Mansfield’s finest say they see it more than others – the draining effect anti-police sentiments nationwide and the recent murders of officers in Illinois and Texas have on their loved ones. It’s why they’re now taking action.
“I felt like we really needed to stand for our police officers, our law enforcement men and women, who go out every day to protect us,” said Sherri Aaron, the wife of Mansfield Police Chief Tracy Aaron.
Wednesday afternoon, she and other officer family members got together to make hundreds of blue ribbons.
At 6 p.m. Wednesday, they stood outside Mansfield police headquarters and handed out the ribbons, as well as bracelets, to anyone in the community who wanted to show their support for police.
“We just want to stand behind our husbands and meet the citizens tonight,” said Rachel Penkala, whose husband is a Mansfield police officer. “Let them see officers are people with families, make that connection, and show their support.”
Chief Aaron says morale across the law enforcement community is down – and that has consequences.
“We see that every day in recruiting,” said Chief Aaron. “Each chief that I’ve talked to tells me that recruiting efforts are down just as a result of what’s going on in the media and across the nation.”
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It’s why he says support for officers is so critical, no matter how big or small the gesture. He believes the blue ribbon campaign will mean a great deal to his officers.
“You know, something as simple as telling an officer thank you or telling an officer to have a good day, or we’re thinking about you, all those kinds of things are huge,” said Chief Aaron.
The families say whatever they can do to help officers here and across the country feel appreciated, they’ll be happy to do it.
“We want to encourage and we challenge other cities nationwide to jump on board,” said Sherri Aaron. “Let’s show these guys that we appreciate them -- because when you call 911, these guys are going to come.”
The Grand Prairie Police Department says it’s working on a similar blue ribbon campaign. Starting Friday, they’ll also sell car stickers that express support for police. All the proceeds will to go organizations that help the families of fallen officers.
