This newsletter marks the fifth Anniversary of Code 7. As an organization we are in our elementary years. We’ve grown as we played on the swing set and learned as we practiced our ABC’s.
Much like our police friends, we have had our ups and downs. We’ve faced anxious moments wondering if we would make it financially and if we were making a worthwhile impact. We’ve also experienced wonderfully unexpected recognition from the police departments affirming the value of our care and support.
Each of the wonderful and worthwhile moments of growth helps us learn how to provide better care for those who wear blue.
Anniversary Ride
I rode along with Chula Vista Police on the night of December 15th to celebrate the Code 7 Anniversary. While in line up, I was given a round of applause by all in the room in celebration of the five years we’ve been formally supporting the department. I couldn’t be more proud of the reception I received and to know we’re a valued asset brings joy to my heart.
Retirements x4
I attended four police retirements this month. The wife of one retiring sergeant asked me to give a prayer during her husband’s retirement ceremony. This request is becoming more common and one I thoroughly enjoy. I’m able to offer a prayerful thanks for the years of service to the community and ask a blessing for the officer and their loved ones as they begin to learn the art of relaxing and enjoy the sunrises of retirement. There is nothing like publically reminding people God is the one who grants us these and all wonderful gifts.
Code 7 Baby Bib
Walking in the community and saw an off duty police officer who not long ago gave birth to twins. I was offered to take a little peak and with permission snapped this pic. Isn’t this the cutest little girl, and that bib! Code 7 – so fun!
Wet Lab
The wet lab is part of a three day training regiment officers go through in order to attain a DUI certification. The lab itself is a little known laboratory experience where individuals are sequestered into a secure and controlled area to do drink specific amounts of alcohol at prescribed intervals.
This volunteer assignment is quite unusual. Those selected are well aware they will be provided with alcohol and have the high probability, and even an expectation of becoming intoxicated to, or above, the legal limit.
The lab, by design, provides the officers in training, an opportunity to learn to gauge blood alcohol content (BAC) levels. Through the use of a variety of sobriety tests, the officers are required to recognize symptoms and determine the alcohol levels of their subjects. Because the trainers know the exact BAC of the test volunteer subjects, it becomes the perfect training tool.
At this point, a percentage of readers will want to know where to sign up, and others can’t imagine this is even real. This is where the Chaplain comes in. I was asked to round up a couple volunteers to participate in a valuable training exercise for the cops. It’s my job to know who is who and to invite those who would be willing and actually excited in helping with this assignment – for the benefit of the community, and of course, the furtherance of science.
I was a designated chaperone (DC) to one of the volunteers throughout the four-hour assignment, which was quite an experience. My cheeks hurt the following day because this was one of the most amusing and entertaining assignments I have ever participated in. Thanks again to all the willing volunteers.
New Chaplain
Code 7 has a new chaplain working with Chula Vista Police. Chaplain Keith Vincent was welcomed by the Chief and is beginning to develop relationships. I’m grateful for the additional support and contact hours providing encouragement for our law enforcement and our community. With an additional chaplain in National City and now one in Chula Vista, I’d say Code 7 is expanding our influence well. If you or someone you know is interested in police chaplaincy, let me know.
Cyn’s Last Ride
“Cyn” has served Harbor Police 31 years and has decided it’s time to end her tour. I was honored to be her final ride-along the week before her retirement. Thank you for your amazing support to your fellow officers through leadership in peer support and through your example. God’s speed, Cyn.
Christmas Cookies
We hosted a cop family Christmas cookie experience at our house yesterday and, oh it was so much fun! Officer Bryan is rolling the dough out like a pro and showing us he, along with a handful of other cops, knows how to play and make memories with their families.
Rest | Reflect | Renew
We function with the belief that if you make intentional time to rest in God and reflect on what He has already done for you, you will be energized to reengage life at a renewed level. I challenge you to consider these verses and be renews.
In Conclusion
Thank you for your love and support throughout 2017! I am grateful for your interest in my life and the ministry of Code 7. May God bless you as you celebrate Christ’s birth and launch a New Year.
Blessings,
Wes Anderson
Founder/Chaplain Code 7
“Though our feelings come and go, God’s love for us does not.”
C.S. Lewis