Wallingford PD: 'Cops Who Served' Program Announced

Press release from the Wallingford Police Department:

May 11, 2021

The Wallingford Police Department is announcing a new program in which its police officers, who are military veterans, or are currently serving in a reserve capacity, can wear a pin on their uniform, which indicates they are a military veteran.

The idea is that while the officers are on duty and are dealing with, or interacting with, a military veteran or other current service member, the officer can be identified by that citizen and hopefully form an instant bond and/or rapport. This helps tremendously when trying to achieve a positive outcome for that veteran and their family by providing referrals to services provided by the Town Veteran’s Service Office or the Department of Veteran’s Affairs.

There are 17 military veterans or about 25% of police officers currently employed by the Wallingford Police Department. Our officers represent every branch of service.

It is estimated that 2.7 million service members have been to the war zones of Iraq and Afghanistan since 2001, and over half of them have deployed more than once. Military personnel face challenges during their tours of duty that can make it difficult to readjust to life back home. Many service members may need mental health care after returning from duty in Afghanistan or Iraq. Service members may experience symptoms of psychological distress, such as PTSD. Other issues may include stress, mood, anxiety, sleep, psychotic, and addictive disorders.

The small pin worn by the officer is more than a piece of designed brass. It is a symbol of proud service to our country and further, a symbol of connection to the veterans within our own community.

If you are a veteran who needs confidential support, please call the Veterans Crisis line at 1-800-273-8255 and press 1.

This press release was produced by the Wallingford Police Department. The views expressed here are the author’s own.