Beyond the Badge

At a time when so much negative attention is focused on a few depraved members of law enforcement, it is important for us to remember that the vast majority of law enforcement officers are kind, decent individuals who have dedicated their lives to serving others. Many of our men and women in blue regularly demonstrate exceptional compassion to those they are sworn to protect and serve, yet they are rarely acknowledged for doing so. That is why Beyond the Badge was formed.

Beyond the Badge recognizes Louisiana law enforcement officers who perform extraordinary acts of kindness beyond that which is required by their oaths of office.

Each year, Beyond the Badge will select Louisiana law enforcement officers who have been nominated by their agencies or the public to receive a “Heart of Law Enforcement” award in recognition of acts of kindness they performed during the previous calendar year. Awards will be given during a special luncheon honoring the recipients. Nominees must have performed acts of kindness that were not required of them in their regular duties as law enforcement officers. Nominees will be considered for acts they performed while on duty or off, and whether or not they were in uniform at the time.

To nominate a Louisiana law enforcement officer, or to learn more about Beyond the Badge, visit our web site, www.beyondthebadgelouisiana.org, or find us on Facebook.

– Linda Hull
Chair
Beyond the Badge Louisiana

This Letter to the Editor originally published in the June 27, 2016 print edition of The Louisiana Weekly newspaper.