I think trying to measure or assess what law enforcement officers in the United States do these days is difficult, but I don’t think it’s hard to conclude that it’s impressive.
As I’ve written in the past regarding this subject, it never ceases to amaze me when I think about the occupation from a big-picture standpoint. There is so much risk and not a tremendous amount of reward.
When you analyze it objectively and look at it without bias, it doesn’t seem balanced. But that’s how it is.
Having been around them in various capacities for many years, I know first-hand that local law officers approach their duties with a sense of urgency and importance, while at the same time keeping their heads on pretty straight. But I also admire the way they never avoid an opportunity to share light-hearted banter about some of the crazy stuff they have to deal with.
And I mean crazy. There are people out there who just don’t think things through and act in ways that would simply never occur in most peoples’ minds, let alone become a course of action. Some of the conversations between officers I’ve heard are definitely right out of the “you can’t make this stuff up” files.
Which, unfortunately, is kind of a sad fact.
And there’s such an element of mystery involved. The reality is, an officer has no way of knowing what they’ll actually encounter when they respond to a call. Every time they knock on the door of a single-wide trailer at the end of a 70-yard long dirt driveway, there’s the chance of meeting up with an irrational person strung out on fentanyl or meth who isn’t at all thrilled with the idea of interacting with someone wearing a uniform and carrying a gun.
Each and every response brings the chance of something going sideways, and every investigation could lead to a less-than-desirable set of circumstances. But that, of course, comes with the territory, and the people wearing the uniforms understand that.
You do what you have to do and hope for the best. Then you do it again.
With that in mind, I find it extraordinary (and kind of awe-inspiring) that officers are willing to perform their tasks with such focus, conviction and perseverance. To me, it shows a rare level of grit, fortitude and bravery.
All things considered, I think trying to determine what would truly be fair compensation is very challenging, but I think it’s safe to say what law officers are paid is probably lower than it should be. But again, that’s how it is.
Anyway, in many parts of the nation (both urban and rural), being a law enforcement officer is a “thankless job.” That’s not so here in South Central Missouri, and I’m thankful it’s not thankless.
These people deserve support, and for the most part, they have it here. Keep up the fine work guys (and gals).
Doug Davison is a writer, photographer and newsroom assistant for the Houston Herald. Email: ddavison@houstonherald.com.