Inspirational Law Enforcement Stories

By Officer Christopher Hoyer (Ret.)

Posted 11/25/2022

I served 20 years and 64 days with the Phoenix Police Department. And yes, I was counting down! After three officer involved shootings and one career ending gunfight, I was done with the enforcement side. But since we never really retire, I am still an active participant in our blue community. I spent two decades saving the world from the outside in. I hope the next two or three decades are spent saving my brothers and sisters from within. For all those still on the front lines, we love you, stay safe, and never quit. For our fallen, we offer prayers to the families and are honored that you are now watching over us.

My badge was made from real metal, so to galvanize the public’s trust and to wear over my heart like a shield. It was earned from pure dedication and hard work. Yes, it came from a box in a warehouse that someone plucked off the shelf and delivered to the graduation ceremony, but for me, standing on stage when the Chief of Police handed me my badge and gave me his ten-second spiel, it may as well have been made of solid gold.

All that I fought for was right there in that shiny piece of tin and guess what? I was wearing it everyday, around my neck, pinned to my chest, or on my belt. I was representing the department and my city. For those that have forgotten the significance or have never understood it in the first place, I am sorry. The badge is a big deal and it should be honored as such.