To the editor:

I wish I could thank every law enforcement officer for the sacrifices they make to protect our families. While we are enjoying the Christmas festivities and New Year celebrations with our families, our officers are out on patrol in all kinds of weather making sure our community is safe. They are responsible for our protection 24-7-365. They put their lives on the line every time they put the uniform on.

Let’s show appreciation for all law enforcement officers and to those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice, by decorating during the holidays with blue lights or by placing a blue light in your home or office window.

We have lost 140 officers so far this year in the United States, including two officers in Kansas. Let’s hope and pray we do not lose more.

I also would like to thank our military personnel and their families. The working and living conditions of the officers overseas are enough to give us nightmares. Many of them will not be home to celebrate the holidays with their families. Some are not even home to celebrate the birth of their own children. Let’s hope and pray they come home safe.

We should all be thankful of our safe communities and free country!

Marilyn Goodheart,

Lawrence