Putting their lives on line - every day

My husband and I would like to commend the San Bernardino Police Department for the bravery we witnessed during and after the recent shooting in their California town.

I would include all the departments from other cities, as well as the medical teams; they all represented the best of what we expect in first responders.

We would also like to extend our sympathy to all the families who lost loved ones, as well as those whose relatives are still hospitalized.

On Dec 3, at a news conference in San Bernardino, Lt. Mike Madden, one of the first responders, gave a heart wrenching account of his experience as he entered the building shortly after he received a call that there was an "active shooter" situation. He described the pleas for help from the wounded, the noise of fire extinguishers, the fear on the faces of survivors. Securing the scene was his responsibility and he did that with the help of many other officers and medical teams. He was deeply affected by the carnage all around him and he seemed to choke up as he paused for a moment.

Other officers located the couple responsible, and a shootout ensued. Again, the police prevailed.

I would like to say to police officers across the country, you are appreciated. Are there a few bad apples? Of course. But I don't think all who are sworn to "protect and serve" should be painted with the same broad brush as those very few who do not live up to their promise. When something bad happens as it did in San Bernardino recently, who will you call? I know who I would call: the police department. These men and women put their lives on the line for us, the public, each and every day. Thank you.

Hazel Kaspari

Elgin