Irvine Police Department PUSHes for Boot Campaign
Veterans often say that they wouldn’t feel safe leaving their families to serve overseas if it wasn’t for the incredible first responders who protect our communities here at home. For almost a decade, some of California’s finest at the Irvine Police Department have initiated fundraisers to benefit our Armed Forces. In the eyes of event organizers, “it’s an opportunity to do something greater than ourselves and pay forward the thanks we receive for our service from local citizens.”
Here’s the latest SITREP from Irvine Police Department Sergeant Sean-Paul Crawford about how they PUSHed others to give back to the military community.
“Our goal was to use our platform as police officers to make some noise and do some good for those who keep our country safe. This year’s event included local businesses, church organizations, local police agencies, fire departments, schools, an Air Force ROTC detachment, and our city sponsored 211 Marines (USMC). We are so grateful to Capt. Joni Marquez (USAF, retired), and a Vietnam Special Forces Veteran and author named John Stryker Meyer (Army, retired) who joined us this year, whether it be by physically doing pushups, or supporting from afar.
Every year, there seems to be someone in the community who captures the attention of the rest of the participants. This year, members of Good Shepherd Lutheran came out and participated in the event. It was so great to see them come out and you could feel their enthusiasm. They took the Spirit Award this year, and I know its hanging up on the wall in the church office!
At the end of the day, our event is about coming together to do something fun while making a difference. Finding creative ways to draw people in, and helping to spread the word about what we are doing is what it’s all about. I have been so impressed with the efforts of our community and our police department over the last several years. I know it means a lot to Boot Campaign and those service members who are in need, and I am proud that we are able to make a difference.”
“My family have been active participants at the IPD Boot Campaign event for several years. My sons have participated as children. My oldest son, now 19, did not participate this year since he is now serving our country as a Combat Medic in the Army.
As a result, our family has an even stronger emotional connection to the Boot Campaign and what it does to help those that have served our great country.”
COMMANDER PATRICK HURTADO
“What an amazing event for such a great cause. This is hands down one of my favorite events to be a part of throughout the year! Thanks Sgt. Crawford for stepping up and hosting it!”
M. MEYERS | SERGEANT
