BILLINGS- Citizens across the country, including in Billings, honored officers Wednesday for National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day.
The group Concerns of Police Survivors along with Vitalant held the National Blue Blood Drive, and the Scheels sporting goods store in Billings also held events honoring police.
There are about 150 officers in the Billings Police Department and 50 in the Yellowstone County Sheriff’s Office.
Sheriff Mike Linder says integrity and a willingness to serve make good law enforcement officers.
The honoring of officers started in 2015 because of negativity and lack of appreciation toward law enforcement, he saidl.
“You’re going to have a little bit wherever you’re at,” Linder said. “We’re very fortunate as that we don’t see near as much as they do in other parts of the country.”
He said the public support comes when the different agencies work together.
“You saw what happened on the river the other day, how well everybody worked together,” Linder said about the rescue of two boys from the Yellowstone River on Friday. “A lot of positive comments and feedback from the community after that was done.”
Linder said students have written cards and some even drop off treats for the deputies.
“It’s great,” Linder said. “It’s wonderful that the community supports us like they do, and we thank them for their support.”
Mayor Bill Cole signed a proclamation making Jan. 9 Law Enforcement Appreciation Day in Billings.
He encouraged showing support for the whole month of January.
