Law Enforcement Officers from All Corners of the State Had Busy Days in Early June for Special Olympics
For the 23rd year, hundreds of law enforcement officers from around the state gathered to participate in the Law Enforcement Torch Run® (LETR) for Special Olympics Wisconsin on Wednesday, June 3rd and Thursday, June 4th. As Guardians of the Flame®, these officers transported the torch from all corners of Wisconsin to light the cauldron at the Opening Ceremonies of the State Summer Games in Stevens Point.
Participants in the Final Leg walked, biked, roller bladed, rode motorcycles and drove support vehicles to escort the Flame of Hope™ to Stevens Point. For the first time in three years, the weather was beautiful as thousands of supporters and family members cheered as the athletes paraded into the Opening Ceremonies. After two years of having to cancel the Opening Ceremonies, Wisconsin’s law enforcement officers were finally able to present a new U.S. flag which was raised by the Stevens Point Fire Department in loving memory of FBI Supervisory Special Agent Greg Rahoi of the Hostage Rescue Team and all of Wisconsin’s Fallen Heroes. The flag was purchased through gifts received in memory of Rahoi who was a proud Law Enforcement Torch Runner in Wisconsin and formerly employed at the Town of Brookfield Fire Department and Madison Police Department.
Sports report with TV-9 of Wausau, Russ Owen and Weekend Sports Anchor at Rhinelander’s News Watch 12, George Savaricas emceed the show as they currently co-host a weekly ESPN radio spot for WCO in Wausau. NFL Referee, Bill Carollo shared his thoughts on the importance of NFL players giving back to the community and Special Olympics Wisconsin official spokesperson and Green Bay Packer A.J. Hawk answered the athletes’ questions throughout the ceremony.
The evening continued with the Law Enforcement Celebration Party, where law enforcement and Special Olympics supporters could enjoy a slideshow of 2009 LETR events and take their chances on the annual raffle. In addition there was a Fallen Heroes Tribute to recognize and honor members of the law enforcement community who have made the ultimate sacrifice while protecting our communities & its citizens.
The program also included the annual presentation of the Wisconsin LETR Dale Brunner Hall of Fame Award presented by Dale Brunner, Washington County Sheriff’s Department Deputy and past Torch Run Director, to Sergeant Daryl Pries of the Stanley Correctional Institution and Cadott Police Department. This award was created to recognize outstanding individuals who have significantly contributed to the statewide success of the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics Wisconsin. The evening ended with a raffle and silent auction, which raised a combined all-time record of $4,500! After the party, attendees were invited to a hospitality room hosted by the Wisconsin Professional Police Association, founding organization of Wisconsin’s LETR.
On Friday, competition began for nearly 1,600 athletes where LETR supporters volunteered at the softball throw and Turbo Jav venues, displayed police vehicles and presented awards to athletes.
Thank you to Kwik Trip, Wisconsin’s LETR Partner and to all of the LETR participants and state committee members who helped make this event such a success!
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