A small convoy of cars and SUVs, escorted by members of the Blue Knights, a motorcycle group of retired NYPD officers in The Villages, brought a patriotic plant, baked goodies and messages of support to each of three law enforcement offices in The Villages onThursday afternoon.
Organized by the Republican Federated Women of The Villages, 13 RFWTV members, whose theme is “Blue Lives Matter” — plus gents from the New York Police Department 10-13 Club and the Blue Knights stopped first at the Marion County Sheriff’s Annex on Mulberry Lane, with trays of cookies and a positive message.
At their second stop, the group was met by Lady Lake Police Chief Chris McKinstry and other members of the Lady Lake Police Department.
“It was awfully nice of you to think of us and do this,” Chief McKinstry said. “We very much appreciate your sentiments. Things are tough out there for police these days, and knowing the public supports us in our law enforcement efforts is very encouraging to our men and women.”
At each stop, the group brought out a “Support Our Police Officers” banner.
Joanne Cooper, the RFWTV president ‘s message was about how much area citizens appreciate what the police and sheriff’s deputies do to keep the peace.
“We want you to know we are with you, we support you and we have your backs,” she said. “You all face uncertainty and risks every day, and with the increased challenges and defiance you face today, we wanted to bring a message of encouragement,” Cooper said.
At the Sumter County Sheriff’s Annex, Sgt. Robert Siemer and Deputies Ted Ledford and Dick Bennett, who had been in a meeting, were glad to greet the group and share some cookies. “This is a very nice gesture of friendship,” Sgt. Siemer said. “We work hard to build positive community relationships, and its good to know so many people are in our corner.”
