Oak Harbor City Councilor Bryan Stucky posted this to his Facebook page on 2026-01-09 12:36:49.
Growing up, I was often afraid of law enforcement. I don’t think I am unique in that regard. If I saw a police officer following me while I was driving, I always worried that I would be pulled over. If I encountered police in public, I never thought to simply “have a conversation” with them. I viewed them as people to be feared.
When I entered my career in funeral service 16 years ago, I began having real conversations with police officers, and my perspective on law enforcement started to change. After all, if your only interactions with police are for negative reasons—such as receiving a speeding ticket—it is easy to form a bad impression.
As I have gotten to know law enforcement more, I have come to see them as people who genuinely care about their communities and the people within them. They are not just there to “bust you,” but to help keep people safe. They wake up each day not knowing what it may bring. One day it may be assisting at a car accident or responding to a medical emergency. Another day it might be tracking down a lost dog. And on some days, they may be putting themselves in harm’s way. For that, I am grateful that it is them and not me.
Mr. Rogers once said, “When I was a boy and I would see scary things in the news, my mother would say to me, ‘Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.’” From my personal experience, our local law enforcement truly embodies those helpers in our time of need.
So, on Law Enforcement Officers Day, I want to say thank you. Thank you to the men and women—both in uniform and in support roles—who show up every day to keep us safe, assist us when we need it, and wake up each morning with a helper’s heart.
Today is Law Enforcement Appreciation Day. We honor the courage and dedication of those who serve.
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The Oak Harbor Police Department extends its gratitude to all law enforcement officers and staff for their unwavering dedication and service. Your personal sacrifices, such as missing birthdays, holidays, and moments with loved ones, do not go unnoticed.
Every day, law enforcement officers protect our communities, supporting victims, mentoring young people, and showing up for others during their most difficult moments. Their commitment is not defined by a badge or uniform alone, but by the respect, integrity, and excellence they bring to the job.
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Take a moment today to thank law enforcement officers; your support matters.
#ThisIsOakHarbor
