Peoria Standard

National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day, which was created in 2015 by multiple organizations including C.O.P.S. (Concerns of Police Survivors), is a day dedicated to showing respect and recognition to law enforcement officers. In Illinois, there are numerous heartwarming stories of police officers who have gone above and beyond the call of duty to save lives and protect their communities.

One such story involves Palos Park police officer Ryan Franczak, who was on vacation in Arizona last summer. While water tubing in a river, Franczak noticed an older man fall off his tube and into dangerous rapids. Acting swiftly, Franczak was able to locate the man underwater and pull him to safety, preventing a potential drowning.

In another instance, Marion Police Officer Sam Ward's quick actions helped save the life of a 7-year-old girl. Ward responded to a 911 call and found the girl on her bedroom floor, not breathing. With the child turning blue, Ward performed life-saving CPR, including mouth-to-mouth and chest compressions. Thanks to his efforts, the girl slowly began to breathe again. Officer Ward was later recognized by the Illinois Fraternal Order of Police for his heroic actions.

Decatur also witnessed the bravery of its officers in 2022 when three officers received the Department's Medal of Valor. During an early-morning shootout, Officers Austin Bowman and Timothy Wittmer were injured while working as part of the department's Community Action Team. These officers put their lives on the line to seize illegal firearms and maintain public safety.

The town of Bensenville also celebrated the heroism of its officers in 2022. Four officers were awarded the Police Medal of Valor by the Illinois Association of Chiefs of Police for their actions in a domestic disturbance. Officer Steven Kotlewski was shot multiple times, sustaining severe injuries, including broken legs and a severed artery. Despite the danger, his fellow officers worked tirelessly to save his life, eventually getting him to medics who could provide the necessary treatment. Officer Kristian Casillas remained at the scene and apprehended the suspect, ensuring that justice was served.

Springfield is no stranger to acts of bravery by its police force. In 2020, two officers, Juan Resendez and Nicholas Renfro, rescued an 83-year-old man from a burning home. Arriving at the scene, the officers kicked down a door and pulled the man to safety as smoke and flames engulfed the house.

The city of Dixon experienced a potentially catastrophic incident in 2018 when a school resource officer, Mark Dallas, prevented a tragedy at a high school. Dallas acted swiftly when an armed teenager opened fire near a gymnasium. Despite being fired upon, Dallas returned fire and successfully apprehended the suspect, ensuring the safety of countless lives.

National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day serves as a reminder of the sacrifices and risks that law enforcement officers face every day. It is an opportunity for citizens to express gratitude and support for these dedicated individuals. Whether it is wearing blue clothing, sending a card of support to the local police department, or sharing positive stories about law enforcement on social media, every gesture counts in showing appreciation for our hero officers in Illinois.

Click this link to access more information: https://repryanspain.com/2024/01/09/celebrating-illinois-hero-officers-on-national-law-enforcement-appreciation-day/