Community Supports Jackson Police Department

JACKSON, Tenn — With signs raised high a community came together just to say thank you to the local police department.

“We want to show our appreciation for local law enforcers, and really law enforcers everywhere.” Supporter Jessica Mclaughlin said. “I don’t think they have been thanked enough recently for all the sacrifices they make for us.”

Organizer Craig Whitney says hearing the news of the five police officers killed in Dallas, Texas inspired him to spring into action.

“Seeing the officers that were still being shot at continue leading the protesters to safety and still doing their job. They were still being targeted but still making sure that people got to safety.” Organizer Craig Whitney said.

For others the tragedy hit close to home.

” I actually have a sister who is a police officer.” Mclaighlin said. “She isn’t here in Jackson, she is in Iowa. So it scares me everyday that I could get a call that she won’t be there again.”

Whitney says thank you’s shouldn’t only come after tragedy.

“Anytime you need police officers you call and they will come no matter what and they have no idea what they are going to face. They get thanked then but they don’t get thanked for the everyday things that are happening.” Whitney said.

Mclaughlin wants to challenge the community.

“I really want to challenge everyone to say thank you to their officers, Firefighters and State troopers. Whether you’re in line at Walmart or they come to your house to respond to a burglary or if they give you a speeding ticket, Say thank you because they are protecting us and that is their job.”

Organizer Whitney ultimately want police to know they have their backs.

“I stand behind them.” Whitney said. “They are willing to give their life to protect me, I’m willing to give my life to protect them if they need it.