ORLANDO, Fla. \u2013 This past weekend was one that I will carry with me for a long time. The Central Florida Concerns of Police Survivors Blue Light Gala brought together families, law enforcement officers and community members for a powerful reminder of why we show up for one another, especially when the spotlight fades and the crowds go home.<\/p>\n
I had the honor of serving as emcee for the weekend\u2019s events, which began with a private gathering for survivor families. It\u2019s a deeply personal night where stories are shared, names are spoken out loud and the weight of loss is balanced by the strength of community. The following evening, the formal gala brought hundreds together to celebrate lives, honor sacrifice and raise support for the families left behind.<\/p>\n
Because this weekend means so much, I wanted to do something a little different.<\/p>\n
[WATCH BELOW: Trooper Steve on Patrol meets St. Cloud Police\u2019s first female deputy chief]<\/p>\n
This week\u2019s episode of Trooper Steve on Patrol is a special edition dedicated entirely to the Blue Light Gala, a behind-the-scenes look at the moments you don\u2019t always see, the purpose behind the event and the incredible people who make it happen year after year. Through the video, you\u2019ll experience the emotion, the unity and the reminder that law enforcement is not just a profession. It\u2019s a family.<\/p>\n
Events like this are not about sadness alone. They are about resilience, remembrance and making sure no survivor ever feels forgotten.<\/p>\n
If you\u2019ve never heard of Concerns of Police Survivors or wondered what the Blue Light Gala is all about, I encourage you to watch this special stream. It will give you a deeper understanding of the mission and why this weekend matters to so many of us in uniform and beyond.<\/p>\n
Thank you to everyone who supports these families, whether by attending, donating or simply taking the time to learn their stories.<\/p>\n
Take a few minutes, watch the special edition of Trooper Steve on Patrol, and help us continue to honor those who gave everything by never forgetting the ones they left behind.<\/p>\n
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