As you read this column, our office will be making final preparations for the District Attorney’s Second Annual Law Enforcement Appreciation Banquet. It’s a chance to give back to the men and women who serve and protect us so admirably.

Part of the event involves an essay contest. Fifth graders from all four counties in the circuit wrote essays to thank our police and deputies for their service. I’ve read hundreds of the essays, looking for one to recognize as the winning entry.

I thought you might enjoy a sampling.

Connor Fitzgerald of Peachtree City Elementary noted: “Officers provide great help and are always there for us….It’s a great feeling to know that they are right there protecting everyone from all kinds of danger….We love that you guys are doing all this for us.”

Adia Turner of Brooks Elementary offers this: “The most important thing that makes them special is that they care. These people take time out of their everyday life and that shows that they are loving people. They make sure that when they are handling a case they are nice.”

From Tyrone Elementary, Jenny Hannah wrote: “Have you ever seen police officers escort a funeral? Well, they don’t do that because it’s the law. They do that for hospitality and kindness. They do it for the ones who are having a hard time letting go of a loved one.”

Samantha Forse from Spring Hill Elementary wrote: “Law enforcement is important to our community because it helps save people’s lives. Helping people is in their everyday schedule. Leaving their families in the morning knowing they might not be coming back that afternoon.”

None of us could have said it better.