The torrential downpour didn’t stop the sold out crowd from attending the third annual Ft Myers Rotary Law and Order Ball at Germain Arena. The community came together to honor all law enforcement agencies within Lee County, Florida. What a wonderful expression of gratitude exhibited for our law enforcement officers. The event was emceed by NBC-2’s own Peter Busch.
Sergeant James “Mathew” Chitwood from the Lee County Sheriff’s office (LCSO) was named as the 2016 officer of the year. Sergeant Chitwood has been with LCSO for the past two decades and currently serves as the intelligence unit supervisor for the Fort Myers’ DEA task force.
All of the nominees were:
Sergeant Jon Kulko Cape Coral Police Department
Officer Cassie McHale Ft. Myers Police Department
Deputy First Class Jarrod Cantrell Lee County Sheriff’s Office
Detective Michael Cahill Lee County Sheriff’s Office
Lori and Lisa from The Eventful Company did an amazing job keeping everyone entertained. Some of the highlights included a bagpipe procession playing Amazing Grace and a live auction leading up to the main event of announcing the Officer of the Year recipient. The atmosphere, decorations and service provided by the wait staff was outstanding!
One of the more memorable moments of the evening – and there were many – was the lovely rendition of the Star Spangled Banner sung by a Ft. Myers Police Officer. A surprised crowd watched as swat team members from the different agencies rappelled to the stage from the ceiling rafters.
Photos from the event:
In these difficult and dangerous times for law enforcement agencies all across our country, Lee County’s expression of thanks and appreciation for those who serve our communities is but a reminder that we must continue to give our men and women in law enforcement the support they need and deserve!
A simple “Thank You!” is all an officer wants to hear. The next time you see a law enforcement officer, please say, “Thank You!” It will make their day.
If you would still like to make a donation to this amazing organization you may do so here.