This Police Officer's Moving Facebook Post Reminds Us Of The Meaning Of 'Protect And Serve'

#1

On this side of the Atlantic Ocean, we've had more than our share of turmoil over the police. Every day there seems to be another story in the media about a shooting involving police, protests against police brutality, and violence against police. It's hard to see police and the public they protect so at odds on a daily basis. Worse, it's harder to see it ending any time soon.

Sadly, on the other side of the Atlantic, the Brits are having their own troubles with policing. Several officers have been lost in the line of duty in recent years, and they've engaged in a few public disputes with the country's Home Secretary the cabinet minister in charge of policing in the UK, among many other duties.

We can all agree that police have a tough job, regardless of the side of the Atlantic they're policing. But sometimes we need a reminder of just what an important role they play, and all the amazing things they do that we never see. One British police officer recently penned an open letter making an impassioned plea for support, and it's been touching hearts around the globe ever since.

#2 "Dear everyone," she wrote. "Why am I choosing to write to you now? I have served you for 26 years, 2 of those as a volunteer. I love my job, I enjoy going to work, and I am at my absolute happiest when I know I have helped one of you."

She had another reason for writing as well: she was inspired by the death of PC Dave Phillips, a 34-year-old constable who died after being run down by a stolen vehicle. He left behind a wife and two daughters.

#3 In her letter, she recounts some of the most heart-wrenching moments of her long career — from interrupting domestic abuses to helping colleagues and families struggling with the aftermath of a suicide, to chasing down burglars, calming down drunks, and even comforting parents after the death of a baby.

Her letter serves as a powerful reminder that our society is held together by brave people putting themselves both physically and mentally in harm's way. "I am not feeling sorry for myself," she wrote. "I am happy to continue to look after you, to fight for you, to save you from further harm. But I want to be able to come home to my family. I want my colleagues to make it home to their family."

#4 "Please stick with us," she concluded. "Remember your heartbreak at watching those 2 little girls deliver flowers and messages to their Daddy who will never come home. Remember the heartbreak of watching the parents of the murdered police officers, knowing they will never watch them get married or have grandchildren. There are thousands of them out there. Just remember them."