In a few hours’ time I’ll get up, get dressed, and drive to my job at the Chicago Police Academy. And it will be filled with sadness and grief at the passing of an officer named Samuel Jimenez.
A few short months ago he was a recruit, learning all about police work and what it entails. I did not know him personally, but I’ll see hundreds of recruits just like him tomorrow, and they’ll all be asking themselves if a similar fate is awaiting them someday. Some, no doubt, will be questioning whether they really want to pursue this as a career. It would be entirely human to have second thoughts, given what happened today. And in a hospital, of all places.
I’m profoundly saddened by the loss of an officer, at the age of 28 with three children who he won’t be able to watch as they grow up. And as a resident of Chicago, I’m exceedingly grateful for the men and women who are willing to put their lives in danger to serve and protect the city I call home. I’ll be sure to show this gratitude to them in whatever small ways I can, in the days and months and years to come. Each of them deserves nothing less.
Blue Batting Helmet 