Commentary by Lt. Bobbie Gorrell
In just a few short weeks the Westfield Police Department will be hosting the sixth annual Jake Laird Community Day.
Since I’m one of the organizers, the months, weeks and days leading up to the event are always filled with a giant “To Do” list. Everything from coordinating with sponsors, planning kids’ activities, communicating with vendors and promoting all the activities is executed by myself and my team. However, when I’m faced with a difficult task connected to the event I take a deep breath and remember why I do this.
You see I’m a police officer first and foremost. I’ve been a Westfield police officer for 27 years. I started as a patrol officer and handled two K-9’s. I then moved up the ranks to sergeant, and now my current position, lieutenant. I became a police officer to help people. It’s the sole purpose many of us join the force and Timothy “Jake” Laird was no different. We want to provide a safe environment for residents to work, live and play.
It has been more than a decade since Jake Laird’s death. He was working as an IMPD officer when he was killed in the line of duty Aug. 18, 2004. Jake’s parents, Noblesville residents Mike and Debbie Laird, sponsor the event. The goal is to build a relationship with the citizens we serve so they embrace the Westfield Police Department. We are here to serve and protect them.
Jake Laird gave the ultimate sacrifice as an officer. I hope our event shows the appreciation and respect the Westfield Police Department has for Jake and his family. Please join us as we honor him on Aug. 4 from 5 to 8 p.m. at Quaker Park, 17501 Dartown Road, in Westfield.
Lt. Bobbie Gorrell is a sergeant with the Westield Police Department. To contact her, call 804-3000.
