A special evening dedicated to honoring the living and fallen heroes of law enforcement in Maine and across our great country will be held Saturday in Waterville. I truly believe that the film featured at these events will change people’s lives.

I now have a greater understanding of the meaning of the words to “serve and protect.” We rarely hear about the selfless and heroic actions taken by the brave men and women who serve and protect us every day. This film tells a powerful story.

“Heroes Behind the Badge” recounts harrowing stories about law enforcement officers who were caught in the line of fire and survived, and those who made the ultimate sacrifice. The film also follows the families’ journey to Washington, D.C., to witness their fallen loved one’s names on the National Law Enforcement Memorial along with the other 19,600 names honored there.

Every day, law enforcement officers leave their homes and their loved ones not knowing if they will return. I was shocked to learn that every 54 hours one of those officers dies in the line of duty. These are good people and good families.

The Maine Sheriffs’ Association and the Maine Chiefs of Police Association have combined to bring this important film to Maine. It is scheduled to begin at 7 p.m. at FEFC (across from Shaw’s Plaza) at 250 Kennedy Memorial Drive.

Visit www.mainesheriffs.org for more information and tickets.

Glenn Michaels

Brunswick