There are really only a few topics in this country today that I feel strongly towards. Without hesitation, violence toward police officers is at the top of that list.

This brutality is something that hits home for me and many other people throughout this nation. Countless officers have either been injured or killed in the line of duty by people in this country. According to Fox News, "at least 88 law enforcement officers across the U.S. have died while on duty" since the start of 2018.

Police officers sacrifice themselves and put their lives on the line to protect us, and in return are killed for just doing their job. Those who break the law or are angry about what is happening are really holding their guns up to the people protecting them. These people who fight the law and are responsible for the increase in the number of deaths this past year don't realize who they are hurting. Holding a gun to one police officer is like holding a gun to the entire city.

I have personally seen the bonds my father has with his partners and fellow troopers. They are truly all in this together. If you hurt one, you hurt all. Not only are you holding that gun to an entire city, but you're also holding that gun to every family member of that police officer as well.

These officers wake up every morning to serve, yet some do not even make it back safely to their families. We have lived through this past decade of violence toward police, and have witnessed a great number of police deaths that have affected many cities so severely. Now, as the daughter of a State Trooper, I realize why my dad has always been hesitant to share stories or experiences working as a state trooper.

Growing up, I can remember being outside and seeing the big NJSP vehicle that would slowly pull up to our driveway every day, as we would hear our dad's deep voice over the PA system, saying the goofiest things. It is not fair to the families that have to suffer the loss of moments like that, who are forced to live the rest of their lives without their loved one due to the selfish acts of others.

To my father, I thank you and have the utmost respect for you.

You are the most courageous, selfless, and warmhearted man I have and will ever know. You have shown me what it is to be brave. You taught me to always give back and help out when I can. The lessons you have not only taught me but showed me in your line of work, are lessons I will hold onto forever and hopefully pass on as I get older.

As for the troopers and policemen and women across the nation, and as a daughter of a Major in the State Police, I thank you for your service.