I awoke this morning compelled to go to the Merrillville Police Department. I prayed beside Officer Nick Shultz car, asking God to provide peace and comfort to his family and fellow officers. I left a Hobart PD patch on his car with a message to his family and friends on the back. I went inside the PD to speak with my good friend, Jim Donohue, Merrillvilles Assistant Chief of Police. Jim and I attended Northwestern Universitys School of Police Staff & Command together. I was drawn to Jim back then because we seemed to share the same convictions about policing and public service. Jim shook my hand, thanked me for coming and I could feel my eyes begin to water as I told him I didnt know what to say. We spoke in his office where he told me Nick Schultz was an outstanding officer not one person had ever spoken a cross word about. Chief Petruch entered the office and I stood, shook his hand and offered my deepest condolences to him and his department. Throughout my time with the Hobart Police Department, we could always count on Merrillvilles officers to back us during major incidents, and likewise they could count on us. That practice continues to this day. As we talked, I told Jim I dont believe our officers, particularly our uniformed officers, realize the weight of the responsibility we feel for them. I often found myself lying awake at night with the realization I had officers on the street, dealing with anything and everything society had to throw at them. I can only compare that bond to the relationship between parent and child. The constant worry and concern. Ive been retired now for over a year, and I still worry about my guys. I told Jim when something like this hits so close to home, I begin to wonder, Why him? Why Nick Schultz? Call it survivors guilt or whatever, but since the shooting Ive wondered, Why not me? Ive lived a long and fulfilled life? But through the years Ive learned not to question Gods will. It is his plan. I thank Officer Schultz for his service and his sacrifice. I thank him and his family for their decision to continue Nicks legacy through organ donation. Today, there are several people who will get a second chance at life, or at the very least an improved quality of life because of their generosity. His spirit will live on in those he touched. Nick will never be forgotten and I will continue to pray for his fellow officers, department, friends and family so they might find peace and pride in this fine, young man.
Posted on: Mon, 08 Sep 2014 17:03:36 +0000
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