Freeport HS Football Players Surprise Police With Show Of Support
FREEPORT (KDKA) -- Police never know who they will come across on a daily basis.
So, when the Freeport Varsity Football Team showed up to thank officers for their service to the community Friday morning, it was a pleasant surprise.
The students went to the Buffalo Township and Freeport police departments, as well as the State Police Barracks in Kittanning Friday, thanking the men and women in blue.
The kind gesture means a lot in a time when wearing a uniform comes with criticism and heightened danger.
"We as police officers don't really know what were walking into with any situation anymore. That's always been the case, but it seems more and more these days that the level of violence and aggression is really stepping up," said Sgt. Lisa Jobe, with State Police in Kittanning.
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But on Friday it was all smiles, from the teens, and the officers on the receiving end.
The players handed out cookies, balloons and gift cards for each department. But the thing that meant the most to the officers was the message behind it all.
"Something as small as that means so much to police officers. Unfortunately, we don't get shown that much appreciation anymore. But you know, these guys, a fine group of people," said Patrolman Dave Anil with Freeport Police.
The coaches helped come up with the idea, but it was the players who wanted to execute it.
"Helping us be bigger than football, honestly. Good students, good people, and then athletes last for sure," said player Matt Charlton.