Listen to the iHeartMedia interview: Citrus Heights Police Chief Ronald Lawrence is pleased to announce that all Citrus Heights Law Enforcement personnel are joining the California Police Chiefs Association to participate in a new campaign called: America Strong and United. This effort is to recognize the extraordinary service and sacrifice to our community by first responders and essential workers during this pandemic.
First responders historically wear black mourning bands on their badges to mourn the death of a first responder and honor their service and sacrifice. Tragically, several first responders around the state and country have lost their lives to this terrible pandemic and our colleagues are searching for a way to honor their sacrifice. At the same time, there is a need to recognize countless others who continue to serve on the front lines protecting and serving our communities as first responders and essential workers during the state of emergency. Recognizing the need to reflect on sacrifices already made and support those facing unknown danger as first responders and essential workers, a new symbol has emerged. As you encounter Law Enforcement personnel in our community you may notice officers are wearing a red, white, and blue band across their badge. This is in honor of the first responder/essential employee – America Strong campaign. This campaign is not just to recognize law enforcement. It is intended to recognize public safety and other first responders such as firefighters, EMT’s, paramedics, doctors, nurses, as well as the countless essential workers who are supporting our communities in this time of need. It is also in recognition of first responders, medical personnel and others in our communities have who have died or are suffering from the current outbreak.
The America Strong campaign recognizes essential workers who put their health and the health of their family members at risk and are working tirelessly, not just in our community, but communities across the country. This campaign serves to inspire hope and unity each time a community member observes a badge band and will serve as a way to recognize and thank those who are keeping our communities safe and functioning through the current emergency. It is also a way to recognize and remember those we have already lost in America, yet bring us together as Americans, because we are all in this together. Badge bands may be worn by CHPD uniformed personnel to inspire hope and optimism toward a quick resolution to the crisis. It symbolizes strength, unity, optimism and resolve to persevere during this trying time. We are all in this together…we are America Strong!