Thoughts from Chief Sjolander…
It’s part of me…
This is my vest, there are many like it, but this one is mine. I can’t leave things alone, so I’ve “customized” it to reflect who I am. I work for a small agency that doesn’t regulate much when it comes to our uniforms, so I take advantage of that and try to make things my own.
Our city and state pay for our vests, the panels are inside this outer shell and I wear it over my uniform shirt. It’s become a part of me and I’m proud of it.
I’m proud of the “L. Sjolander” because I’m proud of my last name. It wasn’t always that way and back in the day, that name meant drugs, fights, cops being called, and heartbreak. I don’t have a title on my vest because I don’t believe in titles, I believe in people.
I have a picture of our Lord pinned on the inside pocket as well as a St. Michael medal that’s been blessed by the Pope himself. I’m not Catholic, but it was a gift from a dear friend and it’s one of my most treasured possessions.
I have “Every Life Matters” sewn on the front and I truly believe that. No one is more important than anyone else.
I’m very proud of my flag, my badge, and my agency, so they too are proudly displayed on my vest.
The pockets are filled with stuff that can cause, and stop bleeding. I’ve written my blood type on the inside of my vest… Just in case I’m hurt and can’t speak.
It’s worn and broke in, like a comfortable pair of boots, and when I’m done with my shift, and walk in the door, the sound of Velcro being separated is music to my and my family’s ears.
This vest doesn’t make me bulletproof, nor does it make me better than anyone else. It tells a little of my story and if anything, it shows I’m human…
Stay safe,
Lee
This post was originally published on August 3, 2016 on Kenyon Police Department’s Facebook page.
