Citizens Urged to Show Appreciation to Law Enforcement Community

A grassroots Law Enforcement Appreciation Day has been set for Shreveport-Bossier.

Organizers are asking citizens to express their appreciation to the local law enforcement community, especially on Friday, August 5, 2016. That's the one-year anniversary of the death of Shreveport Police Officer Thomas LaValley, who was shot while responding to a domestic violence call in the Queensborough neighborhood.

According to a news release, the LEAD has also been scheduled due to the current animosity that exists between some residents and the law enforcement community, as well as the tragic recent occurrences of officers being shot or killed in several U.S. cities, including Baton Rouge and Dallas.

"I'm encouraging citizens to do whatever they are able to do physically, financially, and prayerfully to show all law enforcement officers that we appreciate the job that they do," said LEAD organizer Anthony Nations. "This may involve getting out of your chair, your car, or your comfort zone."

Ways you could help include:

• Buying them a cup of coffee or a soft drink
• Buying them a meal
• A simple hug or expression of thank-you
• Personal prayer
• Discounts on goods or services
• Wearing of blue garments on Friday, August 5
• Almost any expression of thanks that would be appreciated by a law enforcement officer

Remember, these are the men and women who protect us each and every day, and we need to let them know that we care about them and pray for their safety daily.