Officially Official

So, Tuesday, I became an official sworn police officer for the City of Longview. 1-11-11 is my commission date with them. Shouldn't have a problem remembering that! I got an awesome new shiny badge and a stomach full of knots!

My parents and Clint were there. I am sure throughout my lifetime, my parents wondered where or what I was going to do, especially when I was younger. I had no direction for a few years and then BAM! Next thing I know, they are crying at every turn, not because I dissapointed them :) I love making my parents proud because that is the only way I know to repay them for the AWESOME raising they gave me and my sister.

Clint pinned me again like academy graduation. If it wasn't for his patience, loving, caring, SUPPORTIVE nature, I couldn't have done this, or atleast not been able to keep my sanity. He is exactly what I need because he keeps me grounded as I pursue my dreams. I could never thank him enough.

Two of my other favorite people were there Cory Hoover and John Smith (shout out!) They are my out of family support system. (OFSS) ha ha ha haa......

Constable John Smith was my sponsor through the academy and I am PROUD to say it. He is truly a hero and does amazing things for the people inside and outside of his precinct. John has a heart as big as Texas and isn't afraid to put it on the line to make sure we stay safe.  I love hearing his stories of the past.....John has the BEST team working with him as well. His whole office are the neatest folks I have met.

Cory introduced me to John when I was trying to figure my way blindly through the academy registration process. Cory has a passion like no one I have ever seen....if you need someone caught, tell Cory! Cory will not let anyone get away and usually finds them in record time! If you really want to cause some bad news for those criminals.....John and Cory combined is a power house of law enforcement that will leave the criminals spining in their socks.

Sadly, there were many people there that I would have loved to have attend. I just knew it wouldnt last very long and did not want to make people feel like they were obligated to attend just because they were invited and they live VERY busy lives. I have plenty of pictures, so if you would like to see them let me know. I cannot post them due to L.P.D policy :)

What a whirl wind!

So, I started my first week at Longview P.D. and I had a lot of computer information thrown my way, but the second week, I had actual punches thrown my way! We started this week learning the S.P.E.A.R defense tactics and man, 8 hours of that was all I wanted. I loved it, but it was a complete workout. Today, we started working with a tool called the OPN which is the code word for nunchucks.

I never thought I would carry that, but man is that a cool tool! Anyway, I dont really know how my two little stick arms are going to hold up to the pinching, twisting, wrapping, pressure of the next 8 hours, but it cannot pass soon enough.

 I realize how much I do not know. I am in with 3 other (5 if you count the instructors) experienced officers, which is fine because I am learning from them. It is sort of weird being on a learning level and taking down your first Sgt. and FTO Coordinator! Overall, it is been great so far and I have learned a lot and getting to know people in my department.

God has and will always be GOOD!