Officer down! Many of you may have seen the numerous news reports this past week about CVPD motorcycle Officer Nathan Walker. Nathan was conducting a training exercise in Ramona, CA, with other local law enforcement motorcycle officers when he was struck by a car. The car was rear ended and forced into Nathan’s path causing him to crash and go through the windshield sustaining major injuries. Nathan is in the hospital but expected to fully recover from a punctured lung, multiple broken ribs, and a few serious lacerations to his head and leg. Please keep Nathan, his wife, Officer Margarita (CVPD Chaplain Coordinator), and his family in your prayers as he heals and his care transitions home. Thank you, Lord, for saving Nathan’s life. But for the grace of God, the accident had the probability of being fatal.
Thanks to the monthly supporters and to those who gave a special donation so that Code 7 could sponsor seats for 32 officers to attend the annual San Diego Law Enforcement and Emergency Personnel Prayer Breakfast in May.
I am especially blessed that Nathan and a few of his fellow CVPD motorcycle officers attended. Who would have thought so many prayers would be directed his way just a couple of weeks later? Thank you for supporting us and for continuing to offer prayers for Nathan’s healing.
I have a funny news story to share. In May I nearly had the opportunity to wear a pair of Code 7 cuffs. I was on a ride along, and at 12:30 AM we were sent to a burglary in progress. When we exited the car, I found a safe place and purposefully positioned myself under the cover of darkness while a large group of officers searched for a hiding subject. As additional back up officers arrived on scene, one of them saw me and immediately ordered me to keep my hands in the air and not move. I began announcing myself as chaplain and illuminating myself with my flashlight, but apparently he thought he had captured the caper. He didn’t put it all together until his partner shouted, “That’s the Chaplain! What are you going to do, cuff him with the Code 7 cuffs he just gave you last week?” As they moved closer, we all had a good laugh. Thanks, Chuck, and California Police Equipment for sponsoring the cuffs! They are not only a blessing to the officers, but have made for a great story and deepened camaraderie.
Last month’s Couple’s Date Nights were a huge success. I put some fun games together to spark communication and enhance the evening while the couples were out. One of the winners said, “We had a great time out. The dice game encouraged some really good conversation that we haven’t had in years. It totally gave us some good ideas and quality time together. We are passing the games on to our daughter. Thank You, and God bless you for your work and interest in us. You’re doing a good work. I like how you are not overbearing in sharing the Lord’s word.” I consider the Couple’s Date a fruitful investment into the lives of the officers and a testimony of what I am trying to accomplish as chaplain – love and encourage them in the Lord.
I recognize that the opportunities I have investing in the lives of the officers are a direct result of your prayers and financial support. I’m energized each time I am in the front seat of a patrol car lending an ear to the officer’s needs. Your support helps put me there. Thank you for your prayers and for doing your part.
There is so much more Code 7 would like to do to develop support for police officers locally and across the country. If the Lord provides an offering, please consider the ministry of Code 7.